FROM  THE  LIBRARY  OF 


REV.  LOUIS  FITZGERALD  BENSON,  D.  D. 

BEQUEATHED  BY  HIM  TO 

THE  LIBRARY  OF 

PRINCETON  THEOLOGICAL  SEMINARY 


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THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 
OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


In  A  Mew  Metrical  Version 


By  “J.  C  ” 

►V^ 

t  Jane  Co^>\e4  i 


"Let  every  thin&  that  hath  breath  praise  the  Lord. 
Praise  ye  the  Lord!” — Psalm  150:6. 


Copyright 

Bible  Institute  of  Los  Angeles 

19  2  3 


BIOLA  BOOK  ROOM 

Bible  Institute  of  Los  Angeles 

LOS  ANGELES.  CALIFORNIA 


FOREWORD 


Perhaps  no  book  in  the  “Book  of  Books”  has  been  so  frequently 
quoted  by  all  classes  of  Christian  readers  as  the  Book  of  Psalms. 

The  First  Psalm  is  well  called  “The  Psalm  of  Psalms”  as  it  is  the 
preface  to  the  whole  collection. 

The  best  known  passage  of  Scripture  is  undoubtedly  the  Twenty- 
third  Psalm.  It  has  given  courage,  comfort  and  counsel  to  more 
Christians,  perhaps,  than  any  other  portion  of  the  Word  of  God.  It  is 
the  “Psalm  of  the  Crook”  where  we  see  the  Shepherd  leading  His 
sheep  in  the  green  pastures,  and  gathering  with  His  loved  ones  at  the 
Table. 

The  Twenty-second  Psalm  is  the  Psalm  of  the  Cross.  In  it  we 
see  the  God-man  on  the  cruel  tree,  dying  for  sinners!  hear  His  cry 
“My  God,  my  God,  why  hast  thou  forsaken  me?”  and  see  the  picture 
of  Jehovah  paying  the  price  of  sin. 

The  Twenty-fourth  Psalm  is  the  “Psalm  of  the  Crown,” — the 
heavens  are  open,  the  King  of  glory  comes  and  ascends  to  the  heights 
with  His  own.  We  could  tarry  here  with  the  reader  and  bask  in  the 
sunshine  of  His  face  who  is  King  of  kings,  and  Lord  of  lords. 

A  young  woman,  a  lover  of  the  Lord  and  of  His  Word,  com¬ 
menced  years  ago  on  Sunday  afternoons  to  meditate  on  the  Psalms 
and  to  put  in  verse  form  those  which  were  her  favorites.  She  had  no 
thought,  at  first,  of  publishing  them,  but  finally  the  thought  came  to 
her  that  she  would  not  like  to  come  to  the  Judgment  and  not  be  able 
to  give  a  satisfactory  account  of  her  “one  talent.”  Acting  upon  this 
conviction,  she  has  now  completed  the  versification  of  the  entire  Book 
of  Psalms,  with  a  rare  spiritual  understanding  and  perception  which 
will  at  once  be  apparent  to  the  reader. 

The  author  herself  has  so  modest  an  opinion  of  the  merit  of  her 
book  that  she  declines  to  allow  her  name  to  appear  on  the  title  page 
and  the  publishers  have,  therefore,  reluctantly  acceded  to  her  request. 

We  feel  sure  that  these  Psalms,  so  wisely  and  exquisitely  metered, 
will  prove  to  be  an  untold  blessing  to  a  host  of  lovers  of  the  Word, 
coming,  as  they  do,  as  an  expression  of  the  heart’s  devotion  of  one 
whose  delight  is  in  the  law  of  her  Lord,  and  in  whose  law  she 
has  meditated  day  and  night.  Of  her  it  could  well  be  said,  “The  Lord 
is  my  strength  and  my  shield;  my  heart  trusted  in  him,  and  I  am 
helped;  therefore  my  heart  greatly  rejoiceth;  and  with  my  song  will 
1  praise  him.”  (Psalm  28:7.) 

We  take  genuine  pleasure  in  commending  this  volume  to  the 
saints  which  are  scattered  abroad  throughout  the  world. 


Superintendent,  Bible  Institute 
of  Los  Angeles. 


Digitized  by  the  Internet  Archive 
in  2019  with  funding  from 
Princeton  Theological  Seminary  Library 


https://archive.org/details/peerlesspoemsofdOOcopl 


PSALM  1 


Blest  is  the  man  that  doth  not  walk 
In  ways  that  evil  men  devise; 

Nor  stands  unmoved  where  sinners  mock, 
Nor  sits  where  scorners  flaunt  their  lies. 

But  he  observes  the  law  of  God, 

And  in  it  takes  his  chief  delight; 

To  follow  it  his  feet  are  shod; 

It  gives  to  him  unerring  sight. 

He’s  like  a  tree  that’s  planted  near 
The  living  waters  flowing  by; 

Whose  fruit  in  season  shall  appear, 

Whose  leaf,  unwithered,  shall  not  die. 

But  the  ungodly  are  not  so ; 

They,  like  the  chaff  before  the  wind, 

Are  tossed  which  way  the  breeze  may  blow, 
Nor  can  a  sure  position  find. 

Therefore,  ungodly  men  shall  ne’er 

With  saints  before  the  Judgment  stand; 

Nor  sinners  with  the  righteous  share 
That  blessed  place  at  God’s  right  hand. 

For  sure  the  Lord  doth  know  the  way 
Of  all  His  righteous  here  below, 

But  the  ungodly,  as  they  stray, 

Shall  perish  in  unending  woe. 


6 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


PSALM  2 

Why  do  the  heathen  rage, 

And  fret  themselves  for  nought? 

Why  daily  bow  before  the  gods 

Their  own  weak  hands  have  wrought? 

Their  kings  do  set  themselves ; 

Their  rulers  counsel  take 

Against  the  Lord,  and  vainly  try 
His  cords  and  bands  to  break. 

The  Lord  their  work  derides, 

And  laughs  their  plots  to  scorn: 

He  in  His  wrath  will  visit  them, 

And  bring  their  souls  to  mourn. 

While  on  His  heavenly  throne, 

The  Lord  said  unto  me : 

Thou  art  my  Son,  this  day 
Have  I  begotten  Thee. 

Ask  me,  and  1  will  give 

The  heathen  for  Thine  own ; 

And  all  the  earth,  from  pole  to  pole, 
Shall  be  to  Thee  a  throne. 

Thou’lt  break  them  with  a  rod, 

A  rod  of  iron  strong; 

In  pieces  Thou  shalt  dash  the  hopes 
Of  all  that  do  Thee  wrong. 

Be  wise,  O  kings!  and  hear, 

Ye  judges  of  the  earth! 

Come  ye  with  fear  and  serve  the  Lord; 
Rejoice  with  trembling  mirth. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


7 


Kiss  ye  the  Son  in  peace; 

Bow  ye  before  His  throne, 
Lest  He  in  anger  turn  away, 
And  all  thy  works  disown. 

Thrice  blessed  are  all  they 
That  put  in  Him  their  trust, 
For  He  is  righteous  evermore, 
And  all  His  laws  are  just. 


PSALM  3 

How  are  they  increased,  O  Lord, 
That  rise  up  to  trouble  me! 

Unto  me  Thy  help  afford, 

Thy  salvation  let  me  see. 

Many  now  of  me  would  say: 

There’s  no  help  for  him  in  God ; 
Lord,  Thou  art  my  shield  and  stay, 
Thou  wilt  lift  from  me  the  rod. 

Lo  !  e’en  while  I  prayed  and  wept, 

He  on  Zion  heard  my  voice; 

Then  I  laid  me  down  and  slept, 

And  awakened  to  rejoice; 

For  the  Lord  didst  me  sustain, 

When  I  was  in  dark  despair; 

Never  shall  I  fear  again, 

When  my  foes  surround  me  there. 

Lord,  arise!  save  me,  I  pray! 

Thou  my  foes  hast  smitten  all; 
Thou  didst  conquer  them  and  slay, 
When  1  did  unto  Thee  call. 


8 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Surely  to  the  Lord  belongs 
Full  salvation  for  His  own: 

Let  us  tell  in  thankful  songs, 

Help  is  found  in  Him  alone. 

PSALM  4 

God  of  my  righteousness,  I  pray, 

Hear  Thou  my  call  from  day  to  day ; 

Thou  hast  consoled  me  in  distress, 

Hear  now  when  I  Thy  throne  address. 

Ye  sons  of  men,  how  long  will  ye 
My  glory  turn  to  vanity? 

How  long  will  ye  unbridled  speak, 

And  ev’ry  new  deception  seek? 

Know  that  the  Lord  hath  set  apart 
Him  that  is  godly  in  his  heart : 

I,  worshiping,  before  Him  fall, 

And  He  will  hear  me  when  I  call. 

In  awe  stand  ye  and  sin  no  more; 

The  Lord  by  grace  wilt  thee  restore ; 
Commune  with  your  own  heart;  be  still; 
The  Lord  will  you  with  gladness  fill. 

Before  His  presence  humbly  bow, 

And  faithfulness  unto  Him  vow; 

Show  forth  the  worship  of  the  just, 

And  in  the  Lord  put  all  your  trust. 

These  words  by  all  are  understood: 

Who  now  will  show  us  any  good? 

Lift,  Lord,  Thy  countenance  of  light; 
Refresh  us  with  the  wondrous  sight. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


9 


Thou  hast  put  joy  within  my  heart; 

Yea,  more  than  corn  and  wine  impart 

When  they  o’erflow,  and  running  down 

The  fruitful  earth  in  glory  crown. 

I’ll  lay  me  down  in  peace  and  sleep; 

Thy  watchful  care  my  frame  doth  keep; 

In  safety  Thou  dost  make  me  dwell, 

Thou,  Lord,  who  doeth  all  things  well. 

PSALM  5 

Give  ear  unto  my  words; 

My  meditations  hear; 

Jehovah,  now  unto  my  prayer, 

Most  graciously  give  ear. 

When  morning  light  appears, 

And  tints  the  eastern  sky, 

Then  shall  my  prayer  ascend  to  Thee, 
Then  shall  I  look  on  high. 

Thou  art  a  holy  God, 

No  evil  dwells  with  Thee; 

The  wicked  stand  not  in  Thy  sight, 
Thou  hatest  iniquity. 

Thou  wilt  destroy  all  them 
That  lying  words  do  speak; 

The  bloody  and  deceitful  man, 

Thou  wilt  in  anger  seek. 

But  as  for  me,  O  God, 

My  feet  shall  seek  Thy  gate; 

And  in  Thy  house,  with  sacred  fear, 

I,  worshiping,  shall  wait. 


10 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Lead  me,  O  Lord,  aright; 

Lead  me  by  truth  and  grace ; 

Because  of  enemies,  make  straight 
The  way  before  my  face. 

For  they’ve  no  faithfulness; 

Their  hands  are  full  of  sin; 

Their  throat’s  an  open  sepulcher 
Where  evil  enters  in. 

Destroy  Thou  them,  O  God, 

Let  all  their  counsels  fail; 

For  their  transgressions  cast  them  out, 
For  they  didst  ’gainst  Thee  rail. 

But  let  all  those  rejoice 

That  put  their  trust  in  Thee; 
Because  Thou  hast  defended  them, 

Let  them  still  grateful  be. 

For  Thou,  O  Lord,  wilt  bless 
The  righteous  with  Thy  grace; 

With  favor  Thou  wilt  compass  him, 
Who  seeks  in  fear  Thy  face. 

PSALM  6 

Rebuke  me  not  in  anger,  Lord, 

Nor  in  displeasure  chasten  me, 

For  1  am  weak;  Thy  grace  afford; 

Let  me  Thy  healing  powers  see. 

My  soul  is  troubled;  Lord,  how  long 
Wilt  Thou  forsake  me  in  my  griefs 
Save  me,  O  Lord,  and  make  me  strong, 
Give  to  my  tortured  soul  relief. 


OF  DAVID.  THE  KING 


1  1 


In  death  there  is  no  thought  of  Thee; 

Who  can  give  thanks  within  the  grave? 
From  doubt  and  darkness  set  me  free; 

Let  them  no  more  my  soul  enslave. 

I  weary  with  my  mournful  cries; 

With  tears  I  make  my  bed  to  swim; 
Consumed  with  grief  become  mine  eyes, 
They,  with  my  constant  grief,  grow  dim. 

All  ye  that  work  iniquity, 

Stand  back!  and  from  me  now  depart; 
The  Lord  doth  hear,  His  eye  doth  see, 

The  anguish  of  my  breaking  heart. 

My  supplication  He  hath  heard; 

He  will  receive  my  earnest  plea ; 

His  pity  for  me  has  been  stirred, 

And  He  will  haste  to  rescue  me. 

Let  all  my  foes  be  now  ashamed ; 

Let  them  return  unto  their  place; 

Nor  let  their  presence  e’er  be  named, 

Nor  let  them  see  again  my  face. 

PSALM  7 

O  Lord,  my  God,  in  Thee 
Put  I  my  trust  alone; 

Save  me  from  them  that  persecute; 
Deliver  now  Thine  own. 

Lest  foes  my  soul  should  tear, 

And  it  to  pieces  rend; 

While  to  deliver  there  is  none, 

Thou  wilt  deliv’rance  send. 


12 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Jehovah,  Lord,  if  I 

Have  done  this  evil  thing; 

If  in  my  hand  iniquity, 

I  should  before  Thee  bring. 

If  evil  I  have  wrought 

To  him  who  was  my  friend — 

(‘Yea,  unto  him  who  was  my  foe, 

I  did  deliv’rance  send.’) 

Then  let  the  enemy 

My  soul  pursue  and  take, 

Till  life  and  honor  shall  for  me 
No  more  on  earth  awake. 

Arise!  O  Lord,  arise! 

Avenge  me  of  my  foes; 

Awake  for  me,  and  judgment  give, 
According  to  their  blows. 

So  shall  the  people  press 
And  compass  me  about; 

Lord,  for  their  sake  return  on  high, 
Till  rings  their  joyful  shout. 

The  Lord  shall  surely  judge 
By  righteousness  alone; 

Judge  me,  O  Lord,  according  to 
A  righteousness  Thine  own. 

O  let  the  evil  of 

The  wicked  have  an  end; 

Establish  Thou  the  just,  for  Thou 
To  such  shalt  justice  send. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


13 


In  God  is  my  defence; 

He  doth  the  upright  save; 

But  wicked  men  shall  surely  come 
To  an  untimely  grave. 

If  evil  men  turn  not, 

The  Lord  will  whet  His  sword; 
Their  lives  He  will  require  of  them, 
According  to  His  word. 

The  wicked  man  conceives 
But  evil  in  his  mind; 

He  makes  a  pit,  and  digs  it  deep, 
And  there  his  grave  doth  find. 

His  mischief  shall  return 
Upon  his  own  vile  head; 

The  evil  deeds  that  he  hath  done, 
Shall  crush  him  down  like  lead. 

But  I  will  praise  the  Lord; 

His  righteousness  I’ll  sing; 

Yea,  I  will  ever  praise  the  name 
Of  our  exalted  King. 


PSALM  8 

O  Lord,  how  excellent  appears 
Thy  holy  name  in  all  the  earth ! 

Thy  glory  calms  our  rising  fears; 

It  doth  the  universe  engirth. 

Out  of  the  mouth  of  babes  hast  Thou 

Ordained  that  strength  divine  should  flow, 
So  that  Thine  enemies  should  bow 
Before  Thee  in  subjection  low. 


14 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


When  I  the  starry  heavens  view, 

And  note  the  moon’s  celestial  light — 
These  wonders  that  seem  ever  new, 

But  have  for  ages  shown  Thy  might — 

Then  comes  the  thought:  Lord,  what  is  man 
That  Thou  art  mindful  of  him  still, 

Whose  earthly  life  though  but  a  span, 

Thou  didst  with  highest  powers  fill? 


All  things  on  earth,  and  in  the  sea, 
Are  made  subjective  to  his  mind; 
Yea,  ev’ry  thing  to  him  is  free, 

In  each  he  doth  a  servant  find. 

O  Lord,  how  excellent  appears 
Thy  holy  name  in  all  the  earth ! 

Thy  power  quells  our  rising  fears, 

And  gives  to  dying  hopes  new  birth. 


PSALM  9 

I  will  ever  praise  Thee,  Lord, 

With  an  undivided  heart; 

All  the  marvels  I  have  heard, 

I  to  others  will  impart, 

And,  rejoicing,  I  will  sing 
Praises  to  Thy  holy  name, 

O  Thou  great  and  glorious  King! 
Through  eternity  the  same. 


When  my  foes  are  turned  back, 

They  shall  fall  before  Thy  sight ; 

No  assistance  shall  I  lack 

When  my  cause  maintained  is  right. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


15 


Thou  the  heathen,  righteous  Lord, 
Hast  rebuked  from  age  to  age, 
And  the  wicked,  with  Thy  sword, 
Stricken  from  the  sacred  page. 


O  thou  enemy  most  dread! 

Thy  destroying  war  shall  cease; 

Blood  of  cities  thou  hast  shed, 

And  made  evil  to  increase; 

But  the  Lord,  the  mighty  God, 

Will  His  judgment  seat  prepare, 

And  with  His  uplifted  rod, 

None  of  all  the  wicked  spare. 

Lord,  Thou  shalt  a  refuge  be 
For  the  lowly  and  oppressed; 

Where  the  troubled  soul  may  flee, 
Where  the  troubled  soul  may  rest. 

They  that  know  Thy  name  shall  trust, 
Trust  in  Thee  for  evermore; 

Thou  wilt  not  forsake  the  just, 

But  his  favor  wilt  restore. 

Sing  your  praises  to  the  Lord, 

Who  doth  still  in  Zion  dwell; 

Read  aloud  His  wondrous  word, 

Of  His  doings  haste  to  tell. 

When  the  humble  call  on  Him, 

He  will  hear  their  faintest  cry; 

When  the  eye  of  faith  grows  dim, 
Doubt  Him  not,  for  He  is  nigh. 

Look  upon  my  trouble,  Lord, 

Let  Thy  mercy  rest  on  me, 


16 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Help  to  me  Thou  wilt  afford, 

When  in  prayer  I  look  to  Thee. 

Then  may  I  show  forth  Thy  praise, 

In  the  gates  lift  up  my  voice; 

There  to  sing  Thy  praise  always, 

And  in  Thy  rich  grace  rejoice. 

Lo !  the  heathen  are  sunk  down 
In  the  pit  their  hands  have  made; 

On  their  works  the  Lord  will  frown, 

And  undo  the  plots  theyVe  laid. 

Into  hell  the  Lord  will  turn 
Ev’ry  unrepentant  soul, 

With  remorse  their  minds  shall  burn, 
While  eternal  ages  roll. 

Let  the  needy  feel  no  fear, 

They  shall  not  forgotten  be; 

Expectations  shall  appear, 

Lasting  as  eternity. 

Mighty  God!  arise!  arise! 

Let  not  sinful  man  prevail; 

Make  them  fear  before  Thine  eyes, 

And  their  puny  strength  bewail. 

PSALM  10 

Why  standest  Thou  so  far  away 

From  me,  O  Lord,  my  only  stay? 

When  troubles  do  my  soul  surprise, 

Why  hide  Thee  from  my  longing  eyes? 

The  wicked,  in  his  haughty  pride, 

Doth  vex  the  poor  and  him  deride; 

Let  such  be  taken  in  the  net 

Which  they  have  for  the  righteous  set. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


17 


How  proudly  do  the  wicked  boast! 
How  fond  of  all  God  hateth  most ! 

The  boastful  sinner  is  not  taught, 

And  God  is  not  in  all  his  thought. 

His  ways  are  hard ;  he  thirsts  for  gain ; 
God’s  warnings  are  to  him  in  vain ; 
And  in  his  heart  he  proudly  says: 

I’ll  prosper  thus  through  all  my  days. 

His  mouth  is  full  of  all  deceit; 

His  tongue  but  mischief  doth  repeat; 
In  secret  places  he  doth  hide, 

The  poor  to  plunder  and  deride. 

E’en  as  a  lion  for  his  prey 
Doth  slyly  watch  from  day  to  day, 

So  watches  he,  without  alarm, 

To  catch  the  poor  and  do  him  harm. 

Within  his  heart  he  vainly  says: 

God  hath  forgotten  me  always; 

No  judgment  quick  o’ertaketh  me, 

My  sin  He  surely  will  not  see. 

Arise!  O  Lord;  lift  up  Thy  hand! 

Let  not  the  boastful  sinner  stand; 

The  wronged  and  humble  cry  to  Thee; 
Arise!  O  Lord,  their  helper  be! 

Why  do  the  wicked  dare  despise 
The  righteous  God?  He  will  arise, 

The  rights  of  the  oppressed  demand, 
With  swiftest  vengeance  in  His  hand. 


18 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


For  Thou  hast  seen  it,  mighty  Lord, 
The  vengeful  look,  the  spiteful  word; 
And  they  who  trust  their  cause  to  Thee, 
Find  that  Thou  wilt  their  helper  be. 

The  strong  arm  of  the  wicked  break; 
From  out  the  world  all  evil  take. 

The  Lord  is  King  for  evermore, 

Him  only,  would  our  hearts  adore. 

Lord,  Thou  hast  heard  the  fond  desires, 
To  which  the  humble  soul  aspires; 
Prepare  the  heart,  and  bend  Thine  ear, 
The  contrite  prayer  of  faith  to  hear. 

The  fatherless,  O  Lord,  defend! 

To  the  oppressed  deliv’rance  send! 

Let  wicked  men  no  more  distress 
The  lowly  ones,  nor  them  oppress. 

PSALM  1 1 

In  God,  the  Lord,  I  put  my  trust; 

How  to  my  soul  say  ye, 

Like  as  a  frightened  bird  for  rest 
Unto  your  mountain  flee? 

For  lo!  the  wicked  bend  their  bow, 

And  draw  their  arrowed  string, 

That  they  the  upright  man  may  pierce, 
And  his  destruction  bring. 

If  the  foundations  be  destroyed, 

What  can  the  righteous  do? 

My  sure  foundation  is  the  Lord, 

My  hope,  His  promise  true. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


19 


In  the  great  temple  dwells  the  Lord, 
On  His  white  throne  on  high; 

His  eyes  behold  the  sons  of  men, 
Their  deeds  His  law  doth  try. 

With  loving  skill  the  Lord  doth  try 
The  righteous  man  alway; 

But  soon  the  wicked  and  profane 
His  righteousness  must  slay. 

And  this  must  be  their  bitter  cup, 
The  portion  they  must  drain, 

The  anger  of  the  Lord  to  fall 
In  storms  of  fiery  rain. 

The  Lord  is  righteous,  and  He  loves 
The  man  of  upright  heart; 

On  him  He  will  with  favor  look, 

And  grace  and  strength  impart. 

PSALM  12 

O  Lord,  Thy  help  extend! 

The  godly  man  doth  cease; 

The  faithful  fall  on  ev’ry  side, 

The  righteous  ones  decrease. 

The  wicked  boldly  speak, 

Each  with  his  neighbor  near; 

With  flatt’ring  lips  and  double  heart, 
Dissemble  without  fear. 

The  Lord  will  cause  to  cease 
The  proud,  deceitful  tongue; 

And  dumb  before  His  judgment  seat 
Shall  stand  the  old  and  young. 


20 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Those  who,  with  haughty  mien, 

Have  said,  our  tongues  prevail, 

And  do,  with  proud  and  boastful  speech, 
The  Sovereign  Lord  assail. 

The  Lord  is  over  all; 

He  hears  the  groans  and  sighs 

Of  His  oppressed  and  needy  ones, 

And  for  them  will  arise. 

Yea,  He  will  keep  all  such 
In  safety  ev‘ry  day, 

Nor  let  the  taunting  voice  of  foes 
Their  fond  assurance  slay. 

Jehovah’s  words  are  pure, 

Like  silver  purified; 

Yea,  pure  as  silver  seven  times 
In  heated  furnace  tried. 

The  righteous  Thou  wilt  keep, 

O  Lord,  for  evermore; 

’Midst  wicked  men  they’ll  sing  Thy  praise, 
And  Thy  rich  grace  adore. 

The  wicked  boldly  walk 
In  ev’ry  place  at  will, 

When  vilest  men  in  power  do 
The  highest  places  fill. 

PSALM  13 

Lord,  how  long  wilt  Thou  forget  me? 
Shall  it  be  for  evermore? 

How  long  hide  Thy  face,  and  let  me 
Thy  rich  grace  in  vain  implore? 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


21 


How  long  shall  I,  vainly  halting, 

In  my  soul  have  doubt  and  fear? 
How  long  shall  my  foe,  exalting, 

To  my  lasting  hurt  appear'? 

Hear  me,  Lord,  mine  eyes  enlighten, 
Lest  I  sleep  the  sleep  of  death; 
Lest  mine  enemy  may  frighten 
From  my  soul  the  living  breath. 
In  Thy  mercy  I  have  trusted, 

Of  Thy  mercy  I  will  sing — 

All  my  wrongs  have  been  adjusted; 
Full  salvation  Thou  didst  bring. 


PSALM  14 

The  fool  hath  said  within  his  heart ; 

For  me  there  is  no  God; 

I  love  Him  not,  nor  do  I  fear 
The  vengeance  of  His  rod. 

Corrupt  are  they  who  thus  do  speak; 

They  stand  where  sceptics  stood; 
Abominable  are  their  works; 

There’s  none  that  doeth  good. 

Upon  the  sons  of  men  the  Lord 

Looked  down  from  Heaven  above, 
To  see  if  any  sought  His  face, 

Or  understood  His  love. 

They  all  have  wandered  far  aside, 
And  ev’ry  evil  done; 

To  serve  the  Lord  in  righteousness, 
Alas!  there  is  not  one. 


22 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Have  they  who  run  in  ways  of  sin 
No  knowledge  of  my  word? 

Who  eat  the  substance  of  the  good, 
And  call  not  on  the  Lord? 

How  fearful  shall  they  be  when  God 
Unvails  His  searching  face, 

And  gives  the  vict’ry  to  the  just, 

His  own  peculiar  race. 

Ah !  ye  who  have  in  pride  despised 
The  counsel  of  the  poor, 

Take  warning,  for  the  righteous  Lord 
Will  be  their  refuge  sure. 

O  that  the  hosts  of  Israel, 

The  Lord’s  salvation  had! 

Then  Jacob’s  children  would  rejoice, 
And  Israel  be  glad. 


PSALM  15 

Lord,  who  shall  in  Thy  house  abide? 
And  who  shall  dwell  close  by  Thy  side 
Upon  Thy  holy  hill? 

He  that  uprightly  here  doth  walk; 
Who  speaks  the  truth;  and  by  his  talk 
Doth  righteousness  instill. 

He  that  backbites  not  with  his  tongue, 
Nor  evil  does  his  friends  among, 

Nor  on  their  rights  encroach; 

He  who  condemns  a  person  vile, 

But  such  as  live  devoid  of  guile 
He  gladly  doth  approach. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


23 


He  that  unto  his  hurt  doth  swear; 

Who  changes  not,  nor  is  unfair, 

That  riches  may  increase — 

The  man  who  thus  uprightly  lives 
Shall  not  be  moved;  the  Lord  him  gives 
Security  and  peace. 


PSALM  16 

Keep  me,  Lord,  my  soul  preserve; 

Tis  in  Thee  I  put  my  trust; 

I  have  said  unto  the  Lord: 

Thou  alone  art  true  and  just; 
Not  to  Thee  can  I  extend 

Any  goodness  found  in  me; 
Only  to  the  saints  can  I 

A  reward  and  comfort  be. 

Sorrows  shall  be  multiplied 
To  all  those  that  go  astray; 
Their  offerings  I  will  refuse, 

Saith  the  Lord  in  that  dread  day. 
Christ,  the  Lord,  my  portion  is; 

He  is  mine  inheritance, 

And  the  portion  of  my  cup; 

All  my  hopes  in  Him  advance. 

Unto  me  the  lines  descend 
Into  pleasant  places  here; 

Yea,  I  have  a  heritage 

That  is  goodly,  full  of  cheer. 

I  will  ever  bless  the  Lord, 

Who  hath  given  me  His  light; 
'Tis  His  grace  instructeth  me 
In  the  seasons  of  the  night. 


24 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


I  have  set  the  Lord  always 

Thus  before  me  as  my  guide; 

And  because  I  trust  His  grace, 

I  shall  in  His  strength  abide. 

Truly,  now  my  soul  is  glad, 

And  my  glory  doth  rejoice; 

E’en  my  flesh  shall  rest  in  hope, 

Till  awakened  by  His  voice. 

For  Thou  wilt  not  leave  my  soul 
Food  for  quenchless  flames  to  be, 

Nor  unto  corruption  give 

Flesh  that  now  doth  cover  me. 

Thou  wilt  show  to  me  the  path 
That  will  bring  me  fullest  joy; 

And  above,  at  Thy  right  hand, 
Pleasures  give  without  alloy. 


PSALM  1  7 

Give  ear  unto  my  prayer,  O  Lord; 

Hear  Thou  the  right  and  heed  my  cry; 
My  sentence,  let  it  come  from  Thee; 

Let  right  be  precious  in  Thine  eye. 

Lo !  Thou  hast  proved  mine  inmost  heart ; 

Thou  hast  me  sought  in  times  of  night, 
Thou  hast  me  tried,  and  blameless  found, 
My  speech  in  all  things  shall  be  right. 

From  works  of  men  I’ve  turned  my  feet; 

My  goings  in  Thy  pathways  hold, 

So  that  my  footsteps  may  not  slip, 

Nor  go  astray  for  gain  or  gold. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


25 


My  longing  heart  on  Thee  hath  called, 

For  Thou,  O  Lord,  my  prayer  wilt  hear; 
Unto  my  speech,  though  so  unformed, 
Incline  most  graciously  Thine  ear. 

Show  me  Thy  lovingkindness  now, 

O  Thou  who  savest  by  Thy  right  hand, 

All  them  that  put  their  trust  in  Thee, 

From  those  who  do  against  them  stand. 

E’en  as  the  apple  of  Thine  eye, 

Keep  me  when  lurk  unhallowed  things; 
Hide  me,  when  dangers  press  me  sore, 
Beneath  the  shadow  of  Thy  wings. 

From  wicked  men  who  me  oppress, 
Preserve  me,  Lord,  I  humbly  pray; 

They  compass  me  in  their  desire 

To  search  me  out,  and  take,  and  slay. 

Arise!  O  Lord,  and  cast  them  down; 

From  wicked  men  set  free  my  soul: 
Bring  Thou  to  judgment  those  who  do 
In  ill-gained  riches  proudly  roll. 

But  as  for  me,  I  will  behold 

Thy  face,  and  of  Thine  image  take; 
Then,  then  shall  I  be  satisfied, 

When  in  Thy  likeness  I  awake. 

PSALM  1  8 

I’ll  love  Thee,  Jehovah,  my  King; 

The  Lord  is  my  Fortress  and  Rock; 

He  hastens  deliv’rance  to  bring; 

In  Him  will  I  trust  when  foes  mock: 


26 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


My  Buckler,  Salvation,  High  Tower, 

Is  God  when  1  call  on  His  name; 

I’ll  laud  Him  and  praise  Him  each  hour, 
His  mercy  and  help  I’ll  proclaim. 

The  sorrows  of  death  compassed  me, 

And  evil  men  made  me  afraid: 

Hell  compassed  me  round  like  the  sea; 

The  terrors  of  death  on  me  stayed; 

Then  I,  in  my  deepest  distress, 

To  God,  unto  God  did  I  cry: 

He  heard  me,  as  out  of  the  stress 
My  tremulous  voice  rose  on  high. 

The  earth,  it  then  trembled  and  shook, 

The  hills  from  their  places  were  moved, 

His  nostrils  emitted  a  smoke, 

His  presence  by  fire  was  proved. 

The  heavens,  they  bowed  and  came  down, 
And  darkness  was  under  His  feet; 

On  wings  did  He  fly  to  His  own, 

As  wings  of  the  wind  were  they  fleet. 

The  darkness  His  secret  place  knew, 

His  tent  was  the  clouds  of  the  sky; 

The  light  came  before  Him,  clouds  flew, 
Hail  fell,  and  the  lightning  was  nigh, 

The  thunder  the  heavens  did  shake, 

The  rain-clouds  their  torrents  gave  out, 

The  earth,  it  became  as  a  lake, 

No  places  of  safety  about. 

He  sent  from  above  and  me  drew 
From  waters  of  danger  around; 

My  foe  in  confusion  He  threw, 

Who  for  me  too  strong  had  been  found. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


27 


Jehovah  alone  was  my  stay, 

He  brought  me  forth  to  a  large  place, 

Because  I  had  kept  in  His  way, 

And  turned  not  aside  from  His  face. 

His  judgments  before  me  were  placed. 

His  statutes  I  had  not  removed; 

Still  upright  was  I,  nor  disgraced 

The  laws  that  His  wisdom  approved. 

The  Lord  hath  me  recompensed  well, 
According  to  what  I  have  done; 

His  kindnesses,  how  can  I  tell? 

My  heart  and  my  service  they’ve  won. 

With  merciful  men  Thou  wilt  show 
Thyself  to  be  merciful  too; 

On  righteous  men  Thou  wilt  bestow 
A  blessing  that’s  precious  and  true; 

With  pure  men  Thou’lt  show  Thyself  pure, 
The  proud,  Thou  wilt  bring  to  the  dust; 

The  hope  of  Thy  people  is  sure, 

For  Thou,  Lord  Jehovah,  art  just. 

My  lamp  Thou  wilt  cause  to  give  light; 
The  darkness  from  Thee  flies  away; 

With  Thee  I’ve  escaped  in  the  night 
From  those  that  pursued  me  to  slay. 

Yea,  perfect  and  tried  is  the  word 
Of  God  unto  them  that  are  His, 

For  who,  who  is  God,  save  the  Lord? 

The  Rock  of  Salvation  He  is. 

’Tis  God  that  me  girdeth  with  strength, 
And  perfectly  guideth  my  way; 

He  bringeth  my  foot-steps  at  length 
To  places  abundant  to  stay. 


28 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


My  hands,  too,  He  teacheth  in  skill 
The  arrow  and  bow  to  direct: 

The  shield  of  salvation  Thy  will 
Ordains  that  it  shall  me  protect. 

Thy  right  hand  hath  holden  me  up ; 

Thy  watchfulness  giveth  me  light; 

My  way  is  enlarged,  and  my  cup 
Of  blessings  overflows  in  Thy  sight. 

My  foes  I’ve  pursued  not  in  vain, 

Nor  turned  I  till  they  were  consumed ; 

I’ve  wounded  them  sore,  that  again 
Their  courage  could  not  be  resumed. 

For  Thou  hast  me  girded  with  strength, 
The  battle  to  enter  with  might, 

That  I  might  thus  conquer  at  length 
The  foes  that  against  me  would  fight; 

Thou  hast  also  given  to  me 

The  lives  of  the  foes  that  I  sought; 

They  cried,  as  they  bended  the  knee, 

For  mercy,  but  God  heard  them  not. 

Then  did  I,  as  dust  in  the  wind, 

Them  cast  as  but  dirt  in  the  road; 

From  strife  and  confusion,  I  find, 

Thou  hast  from  me  lifted  this  load; 

Of  foes  Thou  hast  made  me  the  head; 

A  people  unknown  shall  me  serve; 

As  soon  as  they  hear  me  they’re  led 
To  obey,  nor  from  me  will  swerve. 

The  strangers  shall  soon  fade  away, 
They  in  their  close  places  shall  fear: 

The  Lord  is  our  Rock  and  our  Stay — 
The  Lord,  all  exalted  and  near. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


29 


’Tis  God  that  avenges  me  still; 

The  people  for  me  He  subdues; 

He  lifteth  me  high  on  the  hill, 

The  valley  with  heathen  bestrews. 

O  Lord,  I  give  thanks  unto  Thee, 

In  sight  of  the  heathen  I  praise 
The  name  of  the  Lord,  for  to  me 
Jehovah  Thou  shalt  be  always. 
Deliverance  Jehovah  hath  wrought 
For  David;  and  mercy  hath  shown 
His  people,  in  that  He  hath  brought 
His  chosen  one  unto  the  throne. 


PSALM  19 

The  firmament  God’s  skill  declares, 

And  every  star  His  glory  shares; 

Day  unto  day  they  utter  speech, 

Night  unto  night  His  knowledge  teach. 

There  is  no  language  where  their  voice 
Doth  not  the  heart  of  man  rejoice; 

Their  words  are  gone  through  all  the  earth, 
And  do  its  farthest  bounds  engirth. 

The  sun,  resplendent  in  his  might, 

Breaks  from  the  darkness  of  the  night; 
With  beams  of  gladness  on  his  face, 

He  doth  the  cloudless  heavens  trace. 

His  heat  descends  to  warm  the  earth 
And  quicken  nature  into  birth; 

His  waves  of  light  and  comfort  pour 
Their  blessing  free  on  ev’ry  shore. 


30 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


God’s  perfect  law  corrects  the  soul 
And  makes  the  wounded  sinner  whole; 
The  statutes  of  the  Lord  are  right 
And  give  the  trusting  heart  delight. 

The  Lord’s  commandments  all  are  pure; 
A  light  to  blinded  eyes  most  sure; 

A  guide  to  lead  the  halting  feet; 

A  solace  to  the  heart  most  sweet. 

Sure  is  our  trust  in  Christ,  the  Lord, 
Enduring  as  His  deathless  word; 

The  judgments  of  the  Lord  are  true, 

And  righteous,  all  our  journey  through. 

They  are  to  be  desired  more 
Than  finest  gold  in  richest  store; 

They  sweeter  are,  where’er  we  roam, 
Than  honey  in  the  honeycomb. 

By  them,  Thy  servant,  warned  to  fly 
From  dangers  which  around  him  lie, 
Walks  more  and  more  in  their  accord, 
And  wins  at  last  a  great  reward. 

What  man  is  there  on  sea  or  land 
Who  doth  his  errors  understand? 

From  secret  faults,  O  cleanse  my  life, 
And  free  my  soul  from  inward  strife. 

Within  Thy  servant  ever  reign; 

All  his  presumptous  sins  restrain; 

Then  upright,  true,  my  life  shall  be, 
And  from  the  great  transgression  free. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


31 


The  words  I  speak  from  day  to  day, 

The  thoughts  which  prompt  me  when  I  pray, 
Be  they  accepted  in  Thy  sight, 

O  Lord,  my  King,  my  Strength,  my  Light. 


PSALM  20 

May  the  Lord  Jehovah  hear  thee 
In  the  hour  of  deep  distress; 

May  His  name  defend  and  cheer  thee, 
When  sharp  trials  round  thee  press; 
Send  thee  help,  thy  faith  to  strengthen, 
From  Mount  Zion’s  holy  hill, 

Till  thy  list  of  off’rings  lengthen, 

Till  thy  choicest  thou  dost  kill. 


Grant  to  thee,  with  love,  according 
To  thine  own  believing  heart, 

And  fulfill  each  wish,  affording 
Plants  of  peace  and  joy  to  start. 
We’ll  rejoice  in  thy  salvation, 

Lift  our  banners  in  thy  cause, 
And  the  Lord  of  our  creation, 

Shall  fulfill  thy  righteous  laws. 


Now  I  know  the  Lord  redeemeth 
His  anointed  by  His  grace, 

And  doth  hear  him,  when  He  seemeth 
’Mid  the  clouds  to  hide  His  face. 

He  will  hear  him,  and  from  Heaven, 
With  the  strength  of  His  right  hand, 
Save  the  one  who  long  hath  striven 
With  dark  sin’s  unyielding  band. 


32 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Some  in  chariots  trust  when  seeking 
Safety  from  the  coming  foe; 

We  will  trust — His  praises  speaking — 
In  the  Lord  where’er  we  go; 

They  who  trust  in  human  power 
Are  brought  down  and  quickly  fall; 
Save  us,  Lord,  in  the  dark  hour, 

Hear  us  when  on  Thee  we  call. 


PSALM  21 

The  king  shall  rejoice  in  Thy  power,  O  Lord; 

He  in  Thy  salvation  shall  greatly  rejoice; 

His  heart’s  deep  desire  Thou  didst  him  afford, 

And  granted  the  prayer  of  his  faltering  voice. 

With  blessings  of  goodness  Thou  dost  him  attend; 

Thou  settest  a  crown  of  pure  gold  on  his  head: 

He  asked  of  Thee  life ;  it  to  him  Thou  didst  send ; 

In  ways  everlasting  his  feet  have  been  led. 

Because  of  Thy  mercy,  his  glory  is  great ; 

Yea,  honor  and  glory  Thou  hast  on  him  laid, 

For  Thy  richest  blessings  upon  him  await, 

And  surpassingly  glad  Thine  aid  hath  him  made. 

The  king  puts  his  trust  in  Jehovah  alone, 

And  through  God’s  kind  mercy,  he  shall  not  be  moved; 
Thy  hand  shall  find  out  all  Thy  foes,  ev’ry  one 
That  in  the  fierce  battle  has  treacherous  proved. 

Thine  anger  shall  make  them  a  furnace  of  heat; 

The  Lord  will  consume  them  in  volumes  of  flame; 
Their  sons  Thou’lt  destroy  from  the  earth;  and  defeat 
Their  hopes  of  a  long  and  illustrious  name. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


33 


For  they  did  but  evil  against  Thee  intend: 

They  thought  on  a  mischief  they  could  not  perform; 
In  terror,  full  backward,  these  foes  Thou  wilt  send, 
When  arrows,  resistless,  upon  them  shall  storm. 

O  be  Thou  exalted,  Jehovah,  on  high; 

Thy  strength  is  attested  each  day  and  each  hour ; 
Thine  arm,  ever  ready  to  help  us  is  nigh; 

We’ll  sing  with  acclaim  of  Thy  wonderful  power. 

PSALM  22 

My  God!  my  God!  why  hast  Thou  gone, 

And  thus  forsaken  me? 

Why  seal  Thine  ear  against  my  cry, 

When  I  appeal  to  Thee? 

When  day  appears,  my  waiting  soul 
Cries  out  in  her  distress, 

And  when  the  darkness  shuts  me  in, 

I  still  Thy  throne  address. 

But  Thou  art  holy,  mighty  God, 

For  evermore  the  same; 

Thou  didst  our  fathers  safely  lead 
When  trusting  in  Thy  name. 

They  cried  to  Thee  for  help,  and  soon 
Delivered  were  from  ill; 

Their  hopes  were  not  confounded,  and 
They  trusted  in  Thee  still. 

But  I  am  but  a  worm  to  creep 
Among  the  dust  of  earth ; 

Yea,  a  reproach  of  men  am  I, 

Despised,  the  people’s  mirth. 


34 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


All  they  that  see  me  shake  the  head, 

And  laugh  at  me  in  scorn — 

Ah!  cruel  mockeries,  that  pierce 
Deep  as  the  sharpest  thorn. 

He  trusted  in  the  Lord,  they  say, 

And  sought  His  arm  of  might; 

Let  God  deliver  him,  since  he 
Doth  in  the  Lord  delight. 

But  Thou  art  He  that  found  me  e’er 
I  saw  the  light  of  day; 

Thine  eyes  beheld  me  when  within 
My  mother’s  arms  I  lay. 

Since  earliest  childhood,  Thou,  O  Lord, 
Hast  been  my  God  and  guide; 

And  now,  when  troubles  gather  thick, 
Turn  not  from  me  aside. 

Oppressors  strong  encompassed  me, 
They  did  beset  me  round; 

They  gaped  upon  me  with  their  mouth, 
They  sought  my  soul  to  wound. 

My  blood,  like  water,  is  poured  out; 

My  bones  are  out  of  joint; 

My  heart  like  wax  is  melted  till 
It  doth  my  frame  anoint. 

My  strength  is  like  a  potsherd  dry ; 

My  palsied  tongue  doth  cleave 

Unto  my  mouth;  in  death’s  embrace, 
There  am  I  left  to  grieve. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


35 


For  dogs  have  compassed  me  about, 

The  wicked  close  me  in; 

In  deepest  anguish  am  I  bruised, 
Bruised  for  my  people’s  sin. 

With  cruel  nails  they  pierced  my  hands, 
They  pierced  my  feet  as  well; 

My  heart  and  flesh  alike  are  torn; 

I  all  my  bones  can  tell. 

With  taunting  voice  they  pass  me  by; 

They  on  my  anguish  stare; 

Upon  my  vesture  they  cast  lots, 

And  do  my  garments  share. 

O  be  not  Thou  so  far  from  me! 

My  Lord,  my  Strength,  my  all; 
Deliver  me  from  fell  despair, 

When  I  upon  Thee  cedi. 

Thy  name  in  public  Til  declare; 

Thee  will  I  ever  praise: 

O  ye  that  fear  the  Lord  in  truth, 

Your  hallelujahs  raise. 

For  He  hath  not  His  own  despised, 

Nor  turned  from  him  aside; 

When  the  afflicted  called,  He  heard, 
Nor  did  His  presence  hide. 

My  praise  shall  be  of  Thee  when  I 
Within  Thy  house  appear; 

With  thankfulness  I’ll  pay  my  vows 
When  throngs  to  view  are  near. 


36 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


The  meek  with  satisfaction  eat 
The  food  the  Lord  provides; 

And  he  that  serves  the  Lord  in  truth 
In  peace  and  joy  abides. 

The  ends  of  all  the  world  shall  turn 
Unto  the  Lord  our  God; 

The  nations  of  the  earth  shall  bow 
Before  His  sovereign  rod. 

For  lo!  the  kingdoms  are  His  own, 

To  govern  and  to  keep; 

The  nations  turn  to  dust  again 
And  in  oblivion  sleep. 

A  seed  shall  serve  Him,  and  shall  spring 
With  healing  on  its  leaves; 

Who  takes  thereof  in  faith  and  love, 

Eternal  life  receives. 

From  age  to  age  they  still  shall  rise 
Who  will  His  truth  make  known, 

Till  countless  nations  yet  unborn, 

His  sov’reignty  shall  own. 

PSALM  23 

The  Lord  is  my  Shepherd,  no  want  shall  I  know; 

He  maketh  me  lie  in  green  pastures  below; 

He  leadeth  my  feet  the  still  waters  beside ; 

He  restoreth  my  soul,  with  me  doth  abide. 

He  marketh  my  steps  in  the  way  I  should  take, 

In  safe  paths  of  righteousness  for  His  name’s  sake ; 

And  e'en  when  I  journey  through  death's  darkened  vale, 

I’ll  there  fear  no  evil,  my  faith  shall  not  fail. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


37 


For  Thou  wilt  be  with  me,  to  guide  and  protect; 
Thy  rod  and  Thy  staff  shall  then  comfort  me  yet ; 
For  me  Thou  preparest  a  table  well  spread 
In  presence  of  foes ;  Thou  anointest  my  head. 


My  cup  runneth  over;  my  blessings  enlarge; 

Thy  goodness  and  mercy  still  have  me  in  charge; 
All  the  days  of  my  life  for  me  Twill  be  well, 

And  in  the  Lord's  house  I  forever  shall  dwell. 


PSALM  24 

The  teeming  earth  belongs 
Unto  the  Lord  Most  High; 

Its  vast  and  living  throngs 
Are  open  to  His  eye; 

His  law  is  felt  upon  the  seas, 

The  waves  respond  to  His  decrees. 


Who,  who  shall  here  ascend 
Unto  God’s  holy  hill? 

Or,  worshipping,  attend 
Upon  His  sacred  will? 

He  that  hath  hands  unstained  by  sin, 
And  hath  a  heart  all  pure  within. 

Who  hath  not  lifted  high 
His  soul  to  vanity; 

Nor  sworn  unto  a  lie, 

That  he  enriched  might  be; 

He  shall  a  blessing  here  receive 
From  God,  in  whom  he  doth  believe. 


38 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


This  is  of  them  that  seek 
His  face,  O  Israel; 

The  lowly  and  the  meek 
Shall  find  He  judgeth  well: 

He  is  the  King  for  evermore, 
Jehovah,  whom  the  hosts  adore. 

Lift  up  your  heads,  ye  gates! 

Ye  doors,  be  lifted  high! 

The  King  of  glory  waits, 

Admit  Him  while  He’s  nigh: 

Who  is  this  King  of  glory,  then? 

*Tis  Christ,  who  died  for  sinful  men. 

Ye  gates,  lift  up  your  heads! 

Ye  long  shut  doors,  unclose! 

The  King  of  glory  sheds 
His  blood  for  sinful  foes: 

Who  is  this  great  and  wondrous  King? 
*Tis  Christ,  who  doth  salvation  bring. 

PSALM  25 

O  Lord,  to  Thee  1  lift  my  soul; 

My  God,  in  Thee  I  trust; 

Let  not  my  foes  in  triumph  rise, 

And  lay  me  in  the  dust. 

Let  none  that  wait  on  Thee,  O  Lord, 
Ashamed  be,  or  harmed; 

Let  such  as  disobey  Thy  laws 
Ashamed  be,  and  alarmed. 

Show  me  Thy  ways,  O  Lord  Supreme; 

Teach  me  Thy  paths  aright, 

So  shall  I  know  Thy  sacred  truth, 
And  in  Thy  laws  delight. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


39 


Thy  tender  mercies,  O  how  kind 
They  ever  were  of  old! 

Thy  loving  kindnesses  have  been 
Throughout  the  past,  untold. 

My  sins  of  youth,  and  later  years, 

From  out  Thy  mem’ry  take; 

Show  mercy,  Lord,  and  pardon  me, 
E’en  for  Thine  own  name’s  sake. 

The  Lord  is  good,  and  He  will  teach 
All  doubting  souls  the  way ; 

The  meek  in  judgment  He  will  guide 
In  safety  day  by  day. 

God’s  ways  are  ways  of  truth  to  such 
As  walk  within  His  light; 

He  truth  and  mercy  gives  to  all 
That  keep  His  laws  aright. 

My  past  iniquity,  though  great, 

In  mercy,  Lord,  forgive; 

And  in  Thy  loving-kindness  teach 
A  sinner  how  to  live. 

What  man  is  he  that  fears  the  Lord? 
Him  will  He  teach  the  way 

That  he  shall  choose;  and  lead  therein, 
Nor  suffer  him  to  stray. 

His  peaceful  soul  shall  dwell  at  ease; 

His  seed,  the  earth  possess; 

The  secret  of  the  Lord  attends 
The  ways  of  righteousness. 


40 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Mine  eyes  would  look  unto  the  Lord, 
My  help  in  troubles  past; 

He  will  release  my  feet  from  out 
The  net  that  holds  them  fast. 

Turn  unto  me,  Jehovah  God: 

Have  mercy  on  me  still; 

Alone,  afflicted,  lo,  I  wait 
To  know  Thy  holy  will. 

The  troubles  of  my  heart  are  great; 

My  sin-tossed  soul,  bid  live; 

On  my  afflictions  and  my  pain, 

Look,  Lord;  and,  Lord,  forgive. 

How  many  foes  there  are  that  rise 
In  hate  to  trouble  me! 

Deliver  me,  and  keep  my  soul; 

I  put  my  trust  in  Thee. 

On  Thee  I  wait;  let  uprightness 
Preserve  me  evermore; 

And  Israel  redeem,  O  Lord, 

From  all  his  troubles  sore. 

PSALM  26 

Judge  me  O  Lord,  I  pray! 

I  in  the  truth  abide; 

Fve  trusted  also  in  the  Lord, 
Therefore  I  shall  not  slide. 

Examine  me,  O  Lord, 

Prove  Thou  mine  inmost  heart; 
Thy  lovingkindness  I  behold; 

Thy  truth  Thou  didst  impart. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


41 


I’ve  tarried  not  with  those 
Who  would  my  Lord  betray; 

My  soul  abhors  to  seek  the  place 
Where  evil-doers  stay. 

From  guilt  I  would  be  free; 

Thine  altar,  Lord,  I  seek, 

That  I  may  there,  with  thanksgiving, 
Of  all  Thy  marvels  speak. 

I’ve  loved  Thy  house,  O  Lord, 

The  place  where  Thou  dost  dwell; 
O  let  me  not  be  found  with  those 
Who  would  Thine  honor  sell. 

They,  who  of  evil  deeds 

Their  willing  hand  inscribes; 

Whose  right  hand,  free  to  do  their  will, 
Is  running  o’er  with  bribes. 

But  as  for  me,  I’ll  walk 
In  mine  integrity; 

Redeem  me,  Lord,  be  merciful; 

Be  merciful  to  me. 

My  foot  securely  stands 
Within  an  even  place; 

Amidst  the  people  I  will  sing 
Of  Thy  redeeming  grace. 

PSALM  27 

The  Lord  is  my  salvation  strong; 

My  light;  whom  shall  I  fear? 

To  him  my  strength  and  life  belong; 
Whom  dread  when  He  is  near? 


42 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


When  wicked  men,  mine  enemies, 

My  secret  foes,  as  well, 

Came  on  me  to  destroy  me,  these 
Soon  stumbled  there  and  fell. 

Yea,  though  an  host  should  there  encamp 
Against  me,  I  will  trust 

In  God,  who  will  their  armies  tramp, 
And  mingle  with  the  dust. 

One  thing  have  I  besought  the  Lord, 

And  prayerfully  will  seek, 

It  is  that  I  may  know  His  word, 

And  of  its  beauties  speak. 

In  times  of  trouble  He  shall  me 
In  His  pavilion  hide; 

I’ll  in  His  tabernacle  be, 

And  on  His  rock  abide. 

Then  shall  my  head  be  lifted  up 
Above  each  bitter  foe; 

On  sacred  joys  my  soul  shall  sup, 

My  heart  with  praise  oerflow. 

Hear  me,  O  Lord,  when’er  I  cry; 

Heed  Thou  my  pleading  voice; 

Have  mercy,  Lord,  and  give  reply, 

And  make  my  heart  rejoice. 

Thou  saidst  to  me:  seek  ye  my  face; 

My  heart  responsive  spoke: 

Thee  will  I  seek;  O,  by  Thy  grace 
More  zeal  in  me  provoke. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


43 


Hide  not  Thy  face  far  from  me,  Lord; 

Thrust  not  Thy  child  away; 

As  in  days  past,  Thy  help  afford; 

Be  thou  my  hope  and  stay. 

E'en  when  my  parents  me  forsake, 

The  Lord  will  me  defend: 

Teach  me  Thy  way;  a  plain  path  make, 
Lest  foes  me  seize  and  rend. 

Give  me  not  over  to  my  foes; 

The  false  against  me  stand; 

I  fainted  had  beneath  their  blows, 

But  for  Thy  helping  hand. 

Wait,  wait  my  soul,  upon  thy  God! 

Be  thou  of  courage  strong; 

To  thee  He  shall  give  strength;  His  rod 
Shall  bring  to  thee  a  song. 


PSALM  28 

Lord,  unto  Thee  I’ll  cry: 

My  Fortress,  safe  and  strong; 
Close  not  Thine  ear  to  me 

While  dangers  round  me  throng: 
If  Thou  be  silent  to  my  call, 

1  shall  into  destruction  fall. 

My  supplications  heed, 

When  I  approach  Thy  throne; 
When  I  lift  up  my  hands, 

My  weak  petitions  own: 

O  let  me  not  be  found  with  those 
Who  fawn,  but  inwardly  are  foes. 


44 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


According  to  their  deeds — 

Which  have  been  to  our  hurt — 

So  recompense  them,  Lord, 

And  give  them  their  desert : 

They  were  not  found  in  God’s  employ, 
And  them  He  surely  will  destroy. 

Thrice  blessed  be  the  Lord ! 

For  He  hath  heard  my  voice; 

He  is  my  Strength  and  Shield, 

And  in  Him  I  rejoice: 

Above  my  foes  He  doth  me  raise, 

And  with  my  songs  I  will  Him  praise. 

Jehovah  is  the  strength 
Of  His  anointed  here; 

Thy  people  bless  and  save, 

Who  worship  Thee  in  fear; 

Feed  them,  O  Lord;  by  grace  restore, 
And  lift  them  up  for  evermore. 

PSALM  29 

Give  to  the  Lord,  ye  mighty  ones, 

The  glory  due  His  name; 

The  beauty  of  His  holiness, 

In  worship  now  proclaim. 

His  voice  is  heard  upon  the  deep ; 

His  thunders  linger  there; 

On  many  waters  He  is  found, 

They  do  His  glory  share. 

His  works  are  seen  on  ev’ry  side; 

Majestic  is  His  voice; 

At  His  command  the  cedars  break; 
Again  they  all  rejoice. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


45 


The  flames  of  fire  His  voice  divides ; 

The  wilderness  it  shakes; 

The  forests  He  hath  made;  each  tree 
To  His  high  praise  awakes. 

Upon  the  floods  the  Lord  doth  sit; 

He  ruleth  there  as  king; 

All  nature  doth  give  praise  to  Him, 

And  tribute  to  Him  bring. 

The  Lord  will  to  His  people  give 
A  strength  that  will  increase; 

And  He  will  bless  His  people  with 
A  never-failing  peace. 

PSALM  30 

Thee  I’ll  extol,  O  Lord,  my  God, 

When  blessings  meet  me,  or  the  rod; 

Thou  hast  me  lifted  up;  Thy  voice 
Forbids  my  foes  o’er  me  rejoice. 

My  mourning  heart  to  Thee  appealed; 

Thou  hast  its  wounds  of  sorrow  healed; 
From  lowest  depths  Thou  hast  me  brought, 
When  I  Thy  love  and  mercy  sought. 

Thou,  gracious  God,  who  gave  me  breath, 
Hast  kept  my  mortal  frame  from  death; 

O  bless  the  Lord,  and  sing  His  praise! 

Ye  saints,  His  hallelujahs  raise! 

When  ye  remember  all  His  love, 

Give  thanks,  as  do  the  saints  above; 

His  anger  but  a  moment  burns, 

His  wrath  to  pity  quickly  turns. 


46 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Grief  for  a  night  our  peace  destroys, 

But  in  the  morning  cometh  joys, 

Such  as  the  world  can  ne’er  bestow — 

Grant,  Lord,  that  we  these  joys  may  know. 

I  said  in  my  prosperity, 

I  never  more  removed  shall  be: 

How  prone  to  boast!  how  vain  is  man! 

How  eager  he  to  scheme  and  plan! 

’Twas  by  Thy  favor  and  command 
My  mountain  strong  was  made  to  stand; 

But,  Lord,  when  Thou  didst  hide  Thy  face, 

My  confidence  to  fear  gave  place. 

I  cried  to  Thee:  In  mercy  save! 

What  profit  is  there  in  the  grave? 

Can  mortal  man  the  truth  declare 

When  he  the  tomb  with  worms  doth  share? 

Hear  Thou  my  prayer,  Jehovah,  hear! 

Have  mercy,  Lord!  O  Lord,  draw  near! 

Be  Thou  mine  aid  when  troubles  press; 

Be  Thou  my  refuge  in  distress. 

My  mourning  Thou  hast  turned  to  joy; 

Thy  mercies  all  my  thoughts  employ; 

Thou  hast  my  sackcloth  cast  away, 

And  clothed  me  in  the  light  of  day. 

To  sing  Thy  praise,  O  Sovereign  Lord, 

Shall  all  my  days  true  joy  afford: 

O  Lord,  my  God,  Thee  I  adore! 

And  thanks  shall  give  for  evermore. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


47 


PSALM  31 

Lord,  in  Thee  I  put  my  trust, 

Let  me  never  be  ashamed; 

Though  a  feeble  child  of  dust, 

Thou  heist  me  from  death  reclaimed. 

Now  from  evil  set  me  free, 

Cleanse  my  life  from  ev’ry  ill; 

May  Thy  grace  descend  on  me, 

Till  it  all  my  being  fill. 

Bow  to  me  Thy  gracious  ear; 

Put  not  far  Thy  servant  hence; 

Be  my  house  of  refuge  near, 

Be  my  rock  of  sure  defence. 

Thou,  my  Fortress  and  my  Rock, 
Evermore  unchanged  shall  stand; 

Thou,  who  lead’st  Thy  ransomed  flock, 
Lead  me  ever  by  Thy  hand. 

From  the  net  that  foes  have  laid, 
Hasten,  Lord,  to  set  me  free; 

Safe  in  Thee  my  soul  is  stayed, 

Thou  my  strength  shall  ever  be. 

Lord,  within  Thy  loving  hand 
I  will  now  my  spirit  place; 

Strengthen  me  and  help  me  stand, 

O  Thou  God  of  truth  and  grace. 

I  have  shunned  all  them  that  sin, 

But  my  trust  is  in  the  Lord; 

May  my  heart  rejoice  within 

That  He  doth  me  grace  accord. 

On  my  trouble  Thou  hast  thought, 

All  my  hidden  grief  heist  known; 

Thou  hast  me  deliv’rance  wrought, 
And  a  place  of  freedom  shown. 


48 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Look  in  mercy;  bring  relief; 

For  my  soul  is  in  distress; 

Lord,  I  am  consumed  with  grief; 

Trials  sore  upon  me  press; 

Yea,  my  life  with  grief  is  spent, 

And  with  sighing  pass  the  years; 

All  my  mortal  frame  is  rent 
With  the  anguish  of  my  fears. 

A  reproach  and  scorn  was  I, 

And  a  fear  around  me  spread; 

They  who  saw  me  came  not  nigh; 

They  who  met  me  quickly  fled. 

I,  a  broken  vessel,  lie 

All  forgotten  and  unused; 

Foes  would  fain  have  made  me  die; 
They  me  slandered  and  abused. 

Still,  I  trusted  Thee,  and  stand 

More  assured  that  Thou  art  mine; 

All  my  times  are  in  Thy  hand; 

Make  Thy  face  on  me  to  shine; 

Save  me  for  Thy  mercies’  sake, 

Let  me  never  come  to  shame; 

On  the  wicked  vengeance  take, 

They  who  have  blasphemed  Thy  name. 

Let  deceitful  lips  be  still, 

Lips  that  speak  to  harm  the  good; 
They  the  righteous  fain  would  kill, 

Thou  their  words  hast  understood. 
But  how  great  Thy  goodness,  Lord, 

Is  to  them  that  fear  Thy  name; 

Thou  dost  unto  them  afford 
Grace  Thy  mercy  to  proclaim. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


49 


Thou  wilt  them  in  safety  hide 
In  the  secret  of  Thy  love; 

There  secure  they  shall  abide, 

Watched  and  guarded  from  above; 
Shelt’ring  wings  shall  hover  o’er, 

Shielding  them  from  strife  and  wrong; 
Praise  the  Lord  for  evermore! 

Praise  and  love  to  Him  belong. 

Once  I  said,  in  trembling  haste, 

I’m  cut  off  before  Thine  eyes; 

But  I  did  Thy  mercy  taste, 

Thou  didst  hear  my  earnest  cries. 
Love  the  Lord,  ye  saints,  nor  fear; 

He  His  faithful  ones  will  keep; 

With  good  courage,  now  draw  near, 

He  will  give  assurance  deep. 


PSALM  32 

Blest  is  the  man  whose  heart  is  cheered 
By  God’s  forgiving  smile; 

And  blessed  is  the  man  of  truth 
In  whom  is  found  no  guile. 

When  I  kept  silence,  all  my  bones 
Waxed  old  through  my  complaint; 

Thy  heavy  hand  was  on  me  laid, 

Till  I  grew  sick  and  faint. 

Then  did  my  trembling  lips  confess 
My  sins  of  heart  and  life, 

And  lo!  a  blissful  peace  arose, 

Where  reigned  of  late  but  strife. 


50 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


To  Thee  shall  ev’ry  child  of  Thine 
In  times  of  trouble  cry, 

For  in  such  times  of  grief  and  fear 
Thy  helping  hand  is  nigh. 

Thou  art  my  hiding  place,  O  God, 

Thou  wilt  preserve  me  still, 

And  my  abode  Thy  presence  shall 
With  songs  of  rapture  fill. 

1  will  instruct  thee  in  the  way, 

1  will  with  thee  abide, 

Thus  saith  the  Lord,  and  with  mine  eye 
I  will  thee  ever  guide. 

Not  as  the  horse  may  you  be  found, 
Which  knows  not  good  nor  ill; 

Whose  mouth  by  bit  and  bridle  held, 

Is  led  against  his  will. 

Many  the  sorrows  that  shall  fall 
On  wicked  men  that  doubt, 

But  he  that  trusteth  in  the  Lord, 

Mercy  shall  gird  about. 

Rejoice!  ye  righteous,  and  be  glad, 

Nor  from  the  Lord  depart; 

Yea,  shout  aloud  for  joy,  all  ye 
That  upright  are  in  heart. 

PSALM  33 

Rejoice  ye  in  the  Lord! 

Ye  righteous  ones  rejoice; 

Praise  God  upon  the  harp, 

And  with  exultant  voice: 

Sing  unto  Him  a  song  this  day, 

And  on  the  mighty  organ  play. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


51 


The  word  of  God  is  right; 

In  truth  His  works  are  done; 
He  loveth  righteousness; 

He  equity  hath  won; 

The  goodness  of  the  Lord  doth  fill 
The  earth  in  valley  and  on  hill. 


*Twas  by  His  word  was  made 
The  firmament  above; 

And  all  created  things 

His  mighty  power  doth  prove; 

He  rolls  the  waves  up  in  a  heap, 

And  their  foundations  layeth  deep. 

Let  all  the  earth  fall  down 
In  awe  before  the  Lord; 

He  spake  and  it  was  done 
According  to  His  word: 

When  He  commanded,  it  stood  fast ; 

For  aye  His  words  and  works  shall  last. 

The  Lord  doth  surely  bring 

All  heathen  schemes  to  naught; 

The  plans  the  people  make, 

Shall  to  defeat  be  brought ; 

The  counsel  of  the  Lord  doth  stand; 

His  thoughts  go  out  to  all  the  land. 

Blest  is  the  nation  that 
Hath  God  to  be  its  Lord, 

For  He  will  to  His  own 
A  promise  rich  afford; 

He  them  regardeth  from  on  high, 

And  for  their  help  is  always  nigh. 


52 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


He  looketh  from  the  place, 

Where  He  above  doth  dwell, 

Upon  the  sons  of  men, 

To  see  if  they  do  well: 

Their  hearts  He  turneth  as  He  will, 
Their  works  He  doth  consider  still. 

’Tis  vain  to  trust  in  men; 

No  king  is  saved  thereby ; 

Nor  in  great  numbers  can 
A  mighty  man  rely : 

A  horse  for  safety  proves  at  length 
The  limitations  of  his  strength. 

On  them  that  fear  the  Lord, 

The  eye  of  God  doth  rest ; 

To  save  their  dying  souls, 

He  heedeth  their  request: 

To  Him  our  waiting  hearts  would  yield; 
He  is  our  only  hope  and  shield. 

For  soon  we  shall  rejoice; 

Our  hearts  shall  joy  in  Him; 

Because  we  trust  in  God, 

Our  hope  shall  not  grow  dim : 

Lord,  let  Thy  mercy  on  us  be, 
According  as  we  hope  in  Thee. 


PSALM  34 

My  soul  shall  bless  the  Lord ; 

His  praises  I  shall  sing; 

Come,  let  us  join  with  one  accord, 
To  praise  and  laud  our  King. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


53 


The  Lord  I  humbly  sought, 

And  He  vouchsafed  to  hear; 

He  to  my  soul  redemption  brought, 
And  banished  all  my  fear. 

The  blinded  eyes  of  sin 

Looked  unto  Him,  when  lo! 

A  light  arose  their  hearts  within, 

His  saving  grace  to  show. 

When’er  the  needy  cried, 

The  Lord  inclined  His  ear; 

He  all  their  tears  of  anguish  dried, 

He  unto  them  drew  near. 

The  angel  of  the  Lord 
Encampeth  all  around 

His  people,  who  with  one  accord, 

To  fear  His  name  are  found. 

O  taste  and  see  how  good 
Our  God  is,  and  how  just! 

Tell  ye,  who  have  Him  understood, 
How  blest  it  is  to  trust. 

Ye  saints,  for  ever  fear 

The  Lord;  His  love  impart; 

His  rich  supplies  of  grace  appear, 

To  satisfy  each  heart. 

The  lions  seek  in  vain 
Their  hunger  to  allay; 

But  they  that  seek  the  Lord  shall  gain 
Rich  blessings  on  the  way. 


54 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Ye  children,  now  draw  near, 

And  hearken  to  my  voice; 

Ye  will  1  teach  the  Lord  to  fear, 

And  in  His  name  rejoice. 

What  man  desires  life, 

And  loveth  many  days, 

That  he  amid  earth’s  busy  strife 
Some  good  may  do  always? 

Thy  tongue  from  evil  keep, 

Thy  lips,  from  speaking  guile; 

In  deep  contrition  mayst  thou  weep, 
If  sin  should  them  defile. 

From  evil  far  depart; 

Do  good;  be  just  and  true; 

Seek  peace,  and  let  it  rule  thy  heart, 
Let  it  thy  way  pursue. 

The  Lord’s  unsleeping  eyes 
Are  ever  on  the  just; 

His  ears  are  open  to  the  cries 
Of  all  that  on  Him  trust. 

Against  the  evil  turns 

The  Lord’s  avenging  face; 

He  cuts  them  off;  their  mem’ry  burns, 
Nor  leaves  of  them  a  trace. 

When’  er  the  righteous  cry, 

The  Lord  above  doth  heed; 

He  to  deliver  them  is  nigh, 

To  help  them  in  their  need. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


55 


The  Lord  is  nigh  to  all 

That  mourn  with  broken  heart; 
He  hears  the  contrite  sinner’s  call, 
And  doth  His  grace  impart. 

The  trials  of  the  just 

Oft  cause  the  eyes  to  weep; 

The  Lord  delivers  all  who  trust; 

He  all  their  frame  doth  keep. 

Sin  shall  the  wicked  slay; 

And  all  who  live  to  hate 
The  righteous,  in  some  evil  day 
Shall  be  left  desolate. 

The  Lord  redeems  all  those 
That  worship  Him  in  fear; 

Not  one  who  trusts,  disquiet  knows, 
Nor  grieves  in  darkness  drear. 


PSALM  35 

O  Lord  Jehovah,  plead  my  cause 
With  them  that  with  me  strive; 

Lift  up  Thy  hand  against  my  foes, 
And  keep  my  hope  alive. 

Of  shield  and  buckler  now  take  hold; 

Against  my  foes  arise; 

A  safety  be  unto  my  soul, 

When  they  its  hurt  devise. 

Let  such  as  my  destruction  seek, 

Like  chaff  before  the  wind, 

Be  driven  by  Thy  angel  forth, 

And  their  destruction  find. 


56 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Let  all  their  way  be  dark  as  night, 

And  troubles  o’er  them  roll, 

For  without  shame  they  cast  their  net 
But  to  ensnare  my  soul. 

Let  swift  destruction  fall  on  him, 

And  pitfalls  him  ensnare, 

Who,  to  destroy,  doth  spread  his  net; 
Soon  may  he  perish  there. 

Then  shall  my  soul  with  songs  of  praise, 
Be  joyful  in  the  Lord; 

In  His  salvation  I’ll  rejoice, 

While  heart  and  flesh  accord. 

Yea,  all  my  frame  shall  testify: 

Lord,  who  is  like  to  Thee, 

Who  doth  the  poor  with  courage  stay, 
And  doth  from  foes  set  free. 

False  witnesses  around  me  rose; 

Yea,  they  before  me  stood; 

They  sought  the  spoiling  of  my  soul, 
And  evil  gave  for  good. 

But  as  for  me,  when  they  were  sick, 

My  clothes  in  grief  I  rent; 

In  prayer  and  fasting,  for  their  sake, 

My  days  and  nights  were  spent. 

Yea,  I  behaved  myself  as  though 
He  were  a  brother  born ; 

I  proved  myself  as  one  that  doth 
For  his  own  mother  mourn. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


57 


But  they,  in  my  adversity, 

Together  did  rejoice; 

And  they,  to  do  me  evil,  spoke 
With  their  united  voice. 

O  Lord,  how  long  wilt  Thou  look  on? 

Me  from  destruction  save; 

Oh!  rescue  now  my  soul  from  such 
As  do  against  me  rave. 

Then  shall  my  tongue  with  thankfulness 
In  the  assembly  speak; 

And  I  among  the  people  shall 
Thy  praise  and  glory  seek. 

Let  not  my  foes  o’er  me  rejoice; 

Nor  let  their  power  rise; 

Thy  speak  not  peace,  but  ’gainst  the  good 
They  evil  do  devise. 

Their  mouths  in  scorn  they  open  wide; 

’Gainst  me  they  mocking  say: 

Our  eyes  have  seen  it,  and  they  cry, 
Deridingly,  Aha! 

This  Thou  hast  seen,  Jehovah  Lord, 

Keep  silence  not,  I  plead; 

O  Lord,  be  Thou  not  far  from  me, 

But  help  me  in  my  need. 

Awake!  O  righteous  God,  awake! 

Heed  Thou  my  trembling  voice; 

Plead  Thou  my  cause;  be  Thou  my  Judge; 
Let  not  my  foes  rejoice. 


58 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Let  them  not  say  within  their  hearts: 

So  would  we  have  it  be, 

Him  have  we  swallowed  up.  O  Lord, 
Change  Thou  their  proud  decree. 

Let  them  to  shame  be  quickly  brought 
That  did  my  ruin  seek; 

Let  them  be  clothed  with  public  shame 
That  did  against  me  speak. 

Let  such  as  favor  my  right  cause, 

Now  shout  aloud  for  joy; 

And  let  the  praises  of  the  Lord 
Their  thankful  lips  employ. 

And  thou,  my  tongue,  shall  gladly  speak 
Of  righteousness  and  praise, 

And  everywhere  God’s  love  proclaim, 
And  worship  Him  always. 

PSALM  36 

The  evil  deeds  of  wicked  men 
Within  my  troubled  heart  arise; 

Their  actions  show  they  have  no  fear 
Of  the  great  God  before  their  eyes. 

The  wicked  flattereth  himself, 

Until  abhored  his  sins  appear; 

His  words  are  but  iniquity; 

To  wisdom  he  doth  not  draw  near. 

But  on  his  bed  he  doth  devise 

To  work  but  mischief  more  and  more; 

He  sets  himself  in  ways  not  good, 

Nor  doth  his  heart  his  sins  abhor. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


59 


Thy  mercy,  O  most  gracious  Lord, 

Is  in  the  heavens  far  on  high; 

Thy  faithfulness  doth  reach  the  clouds, 
Yea,  it  doth  far  surmount  the  sky. 

Thy  righteousness  like  mountains  is; 

Thy  judgments  are  as  the  great  deep; 
Thou  dost  preserve  both  man  and  beast, 
A  knowledge  of  them  Thou  dost  keep. 

How  good  Thy  loving  kindness  is ! 

Of  it  my  heart  exulting  sings; 

Thy  children  put  their  trust,  O  Lord, 
Beneath  the  shadow  of  Thy  wings. 

The  riches  of  Thy  house  divine 
Shall  satisfy  each  longing  soul; 

And  Thou  shalt  make  them  all  to  drink 
From  where  the  pleasant  waters  roll. 

The  fount  of  life  is  found  with  Thee, 

And  in  Thy  light  shall  we  see  light; 

Oh!  let  Thy  loving  kindness  flow 
To  all  who  are  in  heart  upright. 

Let  not  the  foot  of  pride  advance 
Against  me,  and  let  not  the  hand 
Of  sinful  man  reach  out  to  thrust 
Thy  servant  from  this  favored  land. 

The  workers  of  iniquity! 

There  are  they  fallen  in  their  place ; 
They  are  cast  down,  nor  shall  they  be 
Lifted  again  from  their  disgrace. 


60 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


PSALM  37 

When  evil  doers  prospered  are, 

Let  not  thy  spirit  fret, 

Nor  works  which  the  unrighteous  do, 
An  envious  thought  beget. 

They,  like  the  grass  which  grows  today 
Luxuriantly  and  high, 

Tomorrow  is  cut  down,  and  left 
To  wither  and  to  die. 

Trust  in  the  Lord,  and  do  His  will, 

And  thus  possess  the  land; 

For  then  with  meat  thou  shalt  be  fed 
From  out  God’s  bounteous  hand. 

Delight  ye  in  the  Lord,  and  He 
Rich  blessings  will  impart, 

And  grant  to  thee  the  pure  desires 
That  rise  within  thy  heart. 

Commit  thy  way  unto  the  Lord, 

Trust  in  Him  evermore, 

And  soon  thy  righteousness,  as  light, 
Shall  shine  as  ne’er  before. 

Rest  in  the  Lord,  and  for  Him  wait 
In  patience  day  by  day; 

Nor  fret  thy  soul  because  of  him 
Who  prospers  in  his  way. 

From  anger  cease;  and  wrath  forsake; 
Let  not  thyself  do  wrong: 

The  wicked  die;  but  righteous  men 
God’s  blessings  shall  make  strong. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


61 


For  yet  a  little  while,  and  lo! 

Hie  wicked  shall  not  be; 

Yea,  thou  shalt  seek  his  wonted  place, 
But  him  thou  wilt  not  see. 

The  righteous  meek,  with  gentle  sway, 
The  earth  shall  soon  possess; 

They  shall  delight  themselves  in  peace; 
Nought  shall  their  souls  distress. 

The  wicked  plotteth  ’gainst  the  just, 

And  would  him  quickly  slay; 

The  Lord  shall  laugh  at  him,  for  lo! 

He  sees  his  coming  day. 

In  hatred  they  have  drawn  the  sword, 
They  long  have  bent  the  bow, 

With  which  they  would  the  needy  slay. 
And  lay  the  righteous  low. 

Their  swords  shall  enter  their  own  hearts; 

Their  bows  shall  broken  lie; 

Yea,  they  who  do  the  righteous  kill 
Shall  in  swift  judgment  die. 

A  little  that  a  righteous  man 
Doth  of  this  world  possess, 

Is  better  than  the  ill-gained  wealth 
Of  those  who  do  transgress. 

The  arms  of  wicked  men  shall  break; 

The  Lord  upholds  the  good; 

Their  riches  are  enduring,  and 
Their  days  are  understood. 


62 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


They  shall  not  hide  their  face  with  shame 
In  any  evil  time; 

In  days  of  famine  they  shall  rise 
On  wings  of  faith  sublime. 

But  wicked  men  shall  perish  soon, 

Like  smoke,  consume  away; 

E’en  one  that  borroweth,  nor  doth 
In  honesty  repay. 

The  righteous  man  doth  mercy  show, 
And  gifts  of  love  bestow; 

And  he  who  thus  is  blest  of  him, 

Shall  in  abundance  grow. 

Each  step  the  godly  man  doth  take, 

Is  ordered  by  the  Lord; 

The  Lord  delighteth  in  his  way, 

And  doth  him  grace  afford. 

Though  he  should  fall,  he  shall  not  be 
Entirely  cast  down; 

The  Lord  upholds  him  with  His  hand, 
And  doth  his  efforts  crown. 

I  have  been  young,  and  now  am  old ; 

I’ve  seen  the  righteous  led, 

But  ne’er  forsaken,  nor  his  seed 
In  hunger  begging  bread. 

He  merciful  is  ever  found, 

And  to  the  poor  doth  lend; 

And  to  his  seed  God’s  loving  hand 
In  blessing  doth  extend. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


63 


Depart  from  evil,  and  do  good 
And  live  for  evermore; 

God  loveth  judgment,  and  will  yet 
His  weakest  saint  restore. 

The  righteous  shall  possess  the  land, 

And  there  in  safety  dwell; 

The  mouth  of  the  redeemed  doth  speak 
Of  truth  and  wisdom  well. 

The  law  of  God,  so  pure  and  just, 

Doth  in  their  hearts  abide; 

Their  steps  are  ordered  by  the  Lord, 

Not  one  of  them  shall  slide. 

The  wicked  for  the  righteous  watch, 

And  seeketh  him  to  slay; 

The  Lord  will  snatch  him  from  their  hands, 
Nor  leave  him  for  their  prey. 

Wait  on  the  Lord  and  keep  His  law; 
’Gainst  evil  firmly  stand; 

God  will  exalt  thee  and  will  give 
To  thee  the  promised  land. 

I’ve  seen  the  wicked  in  great  power 
Spread  like  a  tree  around; 

Yet,  lo!  how  soon  he  passed  away. 

Nor  trace  of  him  I  found. 

Mark  thou  the  perfect,  and  behold 
The  man  of  upright  heart; 

Peace  shall  attend  him,  and  in  joy 
His  spirit  shall  depart. 


64 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


While  the  transgressors  quickly  shall 
Together  be  destroyed; 

Death  and  destruction  for  their  end, 

And  darkness  are  employed. 

But  the  salvation  of  the  saints 
Is  of  the  Lord,  divine; 

When  troubles  rise,  He’ll  be  their  strength, 
And  on  their  pathway  shine. 

The  Lord  shall  help,  and  set  them  free 
From  ev’ry  snare  unjust; 

Yea,  He  will  rescue  them  and  save, 

Because  in  Him  they  trust. 

PSALM  38 

Rebuke  me  not  in  wrath, 

Nor  judgment  on  me  pour; 

For,  Lord,  Thine  arrows  pierce  me  through, 
Thy  hand  doth  press  me  sore. 

My  flesh  no  soundness  knows, 

Because  Thine  anger  burns; 

Because  of  sin  I  groan  with  pain ; 

For  rest  my  spirit  yearns. 

For  mine  iniquities 

Have  covered  all  my  head; 

They,  like  a  burden,  bear  me  down, 

And  darkness  o’er  me  spread. 

My  sin-wounds  are  corrupt; 

I’m  troubled  and  distressed; 

Bowed  down  with  grief,  I  all  day  long 
Go  mourning  and  oppressed. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


65 


My  nature,  filled  with  sin, 

Knows  neither  health  nor  joy; 

I  weak  and  broken-hearted  am, 

Grief  doth  my  voice  employ. 

All  my  desires,  Lord, 

I  now  before  Thee  lay; 

My  groaning  is  not  hid  from  Thee; 

Be  Thou  my  help  and  stay. 

My  heart  within  me  faints; 

Of  courage  I  have  none; 

As  for  the  light  that  once  was  mine, 
It  from  me,  too,  is  gone. 

My  friends  and  lovers  stand 
Aloof,  to  view  my  sore; 

My  kinsmen,  too,  stand  off  afar, 

Nor  pity  as  before. 

They  that  would  seek  my  life, 

Lay  snares  before  my  feet; 

Their  minds  deceits  against  me  frame, 
And  these  their  tongues  repeat. 

I,  as  the  deaf,  heard  not; 

My  mouth  was  as  the  dumb; 

Thus  instruments  of  just  reproof, 

My  lips  did  not  become. 

For,  Lord,  in  Thee  1  trust; 

I  know  that  Thou  wilt  hear — 

If  Thou  art  for  me,  O  my  God, 

What  mortal  need  I  fear! 


66 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


I  said  within  my  heart, 

Hear,  Lord,  lest  otherwise, 

They  should  rejoice  to  see  me  fall, 
And  should  my  hope  despise. 

But  I,  alas!  am  weak; 

My  feet  uneven  walk; 

In  sorrow  I  confess  my  sin, 

And  of  my  failings  talk. 

Mine  enemies  are  strong; 

Their  number  larger  grows; 

And  they  that  hate  me  wrongfully, 
My  halting  feet  oppose. 

They,  also,  that  return 

But  ill  for  good  I*ve  done, 

Mine  adversaries  are,  because 
In  righteous  ways  IVe  run. 

Forsake  me  not,  O  Lord; 

Let  me  Thy  goodness  taste; 

Be  not  afar  removed  from  me; 

To  help  me,  Lord,  make  haste. 


PSALM  39 

Heed  I’ll  take  unto  my  ways, 

That  I  sin  not  with  my  tongue; 
Speech  I’ll  guard  through  all  my  days 
While  the  wicked  I’m  among. 
Dumb  with  silence  I  was  found, 
E’en  from  good  I  held  my  peace; 
Grief  within  me  and  around, 

Did  with  ev’ry  change  increase. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


67 


Hot  within  me  was  my  heart; 

While  I  mused  the  fire  burned : 

Then  I  spake:  To  me  impart 

That  for  which  my  soul  hath  yearned; 

Make  me,  Lord,  to  know  mine  end, 

And  the  measure  of  my  days; 

Frail  I  am;  Thy  grace  extend, 

It  alone  my  spirit  stays. 

As  a  handbreadth  Thou  hast  made 
All  my  days  before  Thee  pass; 

Soon  appears  life’s  evening  shade, 
When  we  fall  as  doth  the  grass. 

Surely  ev’ry  man  doth  walk 
In  a  vain  and  empty  show; 

Of  his  riches  he  doth  talk, 

Knowing  not  where  they  shall  go. 

Now,  O  Lord,  what  wait  I  for? 

All  my  hope  is  fixed  in  Thee; 

My  transgressions  I  deplore, 

From  them  all  deliver  me. 

I  was  dumb  and  held  my  peace, 

For  Thy  hand  had  laid  me  low; 

Lord,  Thy  chast’ning  deign  to  cease, 
Lest  I  die  beneath  Thy  blow. 

When  Thy  hand,  in  Providence, 
Teacheth  man,  his  sins  to  slay, 

Then  his  beauty  his  defense, 

Is  consumed  and  flies  away. 

Lord,  give  ear  unto  my  cry, 

I  am  but  a  wanderer  here; 

Strengthen  me  before  I  die; 

Spare  me,  Lord,  to  me  draw  near. 


68 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


PSALM  40 

I  waited  patiently 
For  God  on  High, 

And  He  inclined  to  me 
And  heard  my  cry: 

He  brought  me  from  a  helpless  state; 

On  Him  alone  1  now  await. 

He  hath  put  a  new  song 
Upon  my  tongue; 

Praise  to  our  God  most  strong 
By  me  is  sung : 

The  people  shall  it  gladly  hear, 

And  trust  the  Lord  with  trembling  fear. 

Blest  is  the  man  that  makes 
The  Lord  his  trust; 

The  proud  and  vain  forsakes; 

And  the  unjust; 

How  many  are  Thy  works,  O  Lord! 

No  pen  of  man  can  them  record. 

Vain  sacrifice  and  gifts 
Thou  hast  not  craved; 

Thy  Holy  Spirit  lifts 
My  soul  enslaved, 

So  that  upon  the  sacred  tree 

A  costly  sacrifice  1  see. 

Then  said  I,  Lord  I  come, 

As  *tis  revealed 

Within  the  sacred  tome, 

Nor  there  concealed, 

I  long  to  do  Thy  holy  will; 

Thy  law  abides  within  me  still. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


69 


I  righteousness  have  taught 
To  the  great  host; 

Thy  law  to  them  I’ve  brought — 
Which  they  need  most — 

Thy  faithfulness  I  have  declared; 

With  them  Thy  lovingkindness  shared. 


Withhold  not,  Lord,  from  me 
Thy  tender  love; 

Thy  truth  and  pardon  free, 

Send  from  above; 

For  mine  iniquities  me  hold; 

They  number  more  than  can  be  told. 

Be  pleased,  O  Lord,  to  save; 

To  help,  make  haste; 

Let  them  confusion  have 
Who  would  me  waste; 

A  lasting  shame  to  all  impart, 

Who  wish  me  evil  in  their  heart. 

Let  them  be  desolate 
And  brought  to  shame, 

Who  do  with  scorn  and  hate 
Deride  my  name; 

But  let  Thine  own  in  heart  rejoice, 
And  praise  Thee  with  exultant  voice. 

But  I  am  poor  and  weak; 

In  need  am  I; 

Yet  doth  the  Lord  me  seek, 

And  draw  me  nigh: 

Thou  art  my  only  hope  and  stay ; 
Lord,  tarry  not,  but  come,  I  pray. 


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THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


PSALM  4 1 

Blessed,  yea,  thrice  blest  is  he 

That  doth  have  the  poor  in  mind; 

His  support  the  Lord  will  be, 

And  in  trouble  comfort  find; 

Yea,  the  Lord  will  him  preserve, 

And  will  keep  his  soul  alive; 

Kept  is  he,  that  doth  God  serve, 

Kept  when  foes  against  him  strive. 

God  will  strengthen  him  when  on 
Beds  of  languishing  and  pain; 

There  his  pillow  shall  be  down ; 

There  he’ll  strength  and  comfort  gain. 
Lord,  be  merciful  to  me, 

Thus  1  cried,  and  heal  my  soul, 

For  I  have  transgressed  ’gainst  Thee; 

Sins  unnumbered  o’er  me  roll. 

Enemies  of  me  speak  ill; 

When  shall  they  depart  and  die? 
When  they  come  to  see  me  still, 

They  in  evil  sayings  vie. 

All  that  hate  me  whisper  there. 

They  against  me  vainly  talk; 

Thus  they  say — while  yet  they  stare — 
He  no  more  will  rise  and  walk. 

Yea,  mine  own  familiar  friend, 

He,  in  whom  I  trusted  well, 

He  who  did  my  feasts  attend, 

Doth  of  my  affliction  tell. 

God,  be  merciful  to  me, 

And  in  pity  raise  me  up, 

So  that  they  confused  may  be, — 

Take  from  me  this  bitter  cup. 


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71 


Grant  that  I  by  this  may  know 
That  Thou  dost  me  favor  still; 

Let  Thy  graces  in  me  grow 
Till  they  all  my  being  fill. 

Blessed  be  the  Lord  on  high; 

Jacob’s  God  be  praised  then; 

Past  and  future  make  reply: 

Praise  the  Lord!  Amen,  Amen. 

PSALM  42 

As  pants  the  weary  hart  to  find 
The  cool  refreshing  brook, 

So  pants  my  soul,  while  groping  blind, 
For  Thee  whom  I  forsook. 

For  Thee,  the  living  God,  I  thirst, 

O  when  shall  I  draw  near? 

Unless  Thy  grace  shall  draw  me  first, 
How,  Lord,  shall  I  appear? 

My  tears  have  been  my  constant  meat ; 

I  mourn  by  day  and  night, 

While  foes  about  me  still  repeat: 
Where  now  is  God,  thy  light? 

When  I  remember  all  these  things, 

My  soul  within  me  dies: 

O  had  I  now  faith’s  eager  wings, 

To  Thee,  my  God,  I’d  rise. 

Oft  to  Thy  house  in  company 
I  went  in  former  days, 

And  raised  in  tuneful  melody 
The  song  of  joy  and  praise. 


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THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


O  why  art  thou  cast  down,  my  souH 
Why  throb,  unquiet  breast? 

Have  hope  in  God,  1*11  yet  extol 
His  grace  that  giveth  rest. 

Within  me  is  my  soul  cast  down. 

But  1  remember  still, 

The  floods  did  not  Thy  people  drown, 
Thou  wast  on  Mizar*s  hill. 

Deep  calleth  unto  deep  with  noise, 

And  threatn’ing  waters  roar; 

The  waves  of  sorrow  drown  my  joys. 
Cold  billows  sweep  me  o*er. 

Yet  will  the  Lord  command  His  love 
To  shield  me  day  by  day; 

And  in  the  night  His  song  shall  prove 
My  comfort  and  my  stay. 

My  soul  doth  say  to  God,  my  Rock, 

O  why  dost  Thou  forget? 

Why  go  I  mourning,  while,  to  mock, 
My  foes  against  me  set? 

As  with  a  sword  within  my  bones. 
My  foes  apply  the  rod, 

While  daily  they,  amid  my  groans, 
Ask:  Where  is  now  thy  God? 

Have  hope  in  God,  and  I  shall  now 
Praise  Him  with  joyful  voice; 

To  Him,  with  faith  restored,  1*11  bow, 
And  in  His  name  rejoice. 


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73 


PSALM  43 

Judge  me,  O  Lord,  and  plead  my  cause 
Against  a  nation  lost  in  sin; 

From  men  unjust  deliver  me, 

When  they  deceitful  ways  begin. 

O  God!  Thou  art  my  strength  and  hope! 

Why,  why  dost  Thou  now  cast  me  off? 

Why  go  I  mourning  still  because 

My  foes  oppress  me  sore,  and  scoff? 

Lord,  send  out  now  Thy  light  and  truth, 

To  lead  me  safely  through  the  land, 

And  bring  me  to  Thy  holy  hill, 

E’en  where  Thy  tabernacles  stand. 

Then  will  I  to  Thine  altar  go, 

O  God,  my  one  exceeding  joy, 

And  there  Thy  praise — on  harp  well  tuned — 
Exultantly  my  time  employ. 

Why  art  thou,  then,  cast  down,  my  soul? 

And  why  disquieted,  my  mind? 

Hope  in  the  Lord;  Him  will  1  praise; 

Rest,  joy,  and  peace,  in  Him  I’ll  find. 


PSALM  44 

We  have  with  our  own  ears, 

Heard  what  our  fathers  told 
Of  Thee  in  former  years; 

Thy  work  in  times  of  old: 

How  Thou  deliv’rance  to  them  brought, 
And  for  us  ’gainst  the  heathen  fought. 


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THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


For  they  got  not  the  land 

By  their  own  power  and  might; 
*Twas  conquered  by  Thy  hand, 

And  Thine  unerring  sight: 

Thou  art  our  only  King,  O  God, 
Deliv’rance  bring  us  by  Thy  rod. 


Through  Thee  we  shall  push  down 
Our  enemies  and  Thine; 

Thou  wilt  our  efforts  crown, 

And  give  us  help  divine: 

for  1  will  not  trust  in  my  bow, 

Nor  by  my  sword  deliv’rance  know. 

Thou  didst  us  save,  O  Lord, 

From  all  that  would  us  harm; 

Didst  shame  to  foes  accord 
By  Thine  almighty  arm; 

In  Thee  we  boasted  all  day  long, 

And  praised  Thee  with  unending  song. 

But  Thou  hast  cast  us  off, 

And  put  us  all  to  shame; 

At  which  the  heathen  scoff, 

And  mock  Thy  holy  name: 

On  foes  we  weakly  turn  our  back, 

When  strength  divine  from  Thee  we  lack. 

Like  sheep  we  driven  are, 

Before  our  foes  and  Thine; 

We’  re  sold  to  those  afar 
When  ceases  help  divine: 

A  vile  reproach  we  then  are  found, 

A  scorn  to  all  our  foes  around. 


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75 


A  byword  Thou  dost  make 
Of  us  to  all  our  foes ; 

We  with  confusion  quake, 

And  fall  beneath  their  blows; 

Our  ears  their  blasphemy  do  hear, 

Nor  seems  there  hope  or  succor  near. 

All  this  is  come  to  us, 

Yet  do  we  not  forget 

That  Thou  hast  led  us  thus, 

And  wilt  avenge  us  yet: 

Our  heart  is  not  turned  back  today 

From  serving  Thee  in  Thine  own  way. 

Thou  hast  us  brought  to  shame, 

With  Thy  correcting  rod, 

When  we  forgot  Thy  name, 

And  sought  another  god: 

Shall  not  God  search  this  out?  for  He 

The  secret s  of  the  heart  doth  see. 

Yea,  for  Thy  sake  are  we 
Killed  and  consumed  all  day; 

We  would  not  from  Thee  flee, 

But  for  the  slaughter  stay: 

Awake!  why  sleepest  Thou,  O  Lord? 

Cast  us  not  off ;  Thy  help  afford. 

Why  hidest  Thou  Thy  face, 

And  all  our  woes  forget? 

We  are  in  deep  disgrace, 

But  Thou  canst  help  us  yet : 

Arise!  O  Lord;  for  us  awake; 

Redeem  us  for  Thy  mercies’  sake. 


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THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


PSALM  45 

My  heart  within  me  speaks  of  truth 

Concerning  Christ,  the  heavenly  King; 
My  tongue  is  as  the  pen  of  one 
Who  doth  a  ready  answer  bring. 

Thou  fairer  art  than  men  of  earth; 

Grace  from  Thy  lips  doth  ever  flow; 
Therefore  God  hath  Thee  blest  above 
The  richest  blessings  earth  can  know. 

Gird  now  Thy  sword  upon  Thy  thigh, 
And  let  Thy  glory  fill  the  land; 

Ride  forth  in  majesty  and  truth; 

Teach  righteousness  by  Thy  right  hand. 

Thine  arrows  pierce  the  inmost  heart 
Of  all  Thine  enemies,  O  Lord; 

And  people  that  against  Thee  rise, 

Are  felled  beneath  Thy  flaming  sword. 

Thy  throne  forever  shall  abide; 

Thy  scepter  is  a  scepter  right; 

Thou  lovest  righteousness  and  truth; 

All  sin  is  hateful  in  Thy  sight. 

Therefore  hath  God  anointed  Thee 
With  oil  of  gladness  over  all; 

Thy  garments  smell  of  myrrh,  and  they 
On  Thee  from  kingly  dwellings  fall. 

Kings’  daughters,  too,  were  found  among 
The  women  that  on  Thee  did  wait; 
There  stood  the  queen,  in  Ophir’s  gold, 
To  welcome  Thee  before  the  gate. 


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77 


O  daughter,  hearken!  and  incline 

Thine  ear  to  precious  words  of  truth; 

Forget  also  thy  father’s  house, 

Where  thou  didst  spend  thy  early  youth. 

So  shall  the  King  thy  beauty  see, 

And  He  thine  homage  there  shall  own; 

He  is  thy  God;  O  worship  Him, 

Nor  let  another  share  His  throne. 

i 

And  Tyre’s  daughter  shall  be  there, 

With  costly  gift  she  shall  Thee  greet; 

1  he  rich  among  the  people  shall 

Thy  favor  and  Thy  grace  entreat. 

How  glorious  is  Thy  church  within! 

Her  clothing  is  of  fine  wrought  gold; 

She  shall  be  brought  unto  the  King, 

That  He  her  beauty  may  behold. 

With  gladness  and  rejoicing  shall 

Thy  ransomed  ones  to  Thee  be  brought, 

And  enter  through  the  palace  gate, 

Which  they  through  tribulation  sought. 

The  children  take  the  fathers*  place, 

As  generations  pass  away; 

Of  them  Thou  mayest  princes  make, 

And  each  may  serve  Thee  in  his  day. 

Lord,  I  will  make  Thy  name  to  be 
Remembered  by  the  nations  then; 

In  all  the  generations  shall 

The  people  worship  Thee.  Amen. 


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THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


PSALM  46 

God  is  our  refuge  and  our  strength; 

In  trouble  he  is  near, 

And  though  the  earth  should  be  removed, 
Our  hearts  shall  know  no  fear. 

Yea,  though  the  mountains  carried  are 
Into  the  troubled  sea, 

And  shake  amidst  the  surging  waves, 

Yet  steadfast  shall  we  be. 

There  is  a  river,  full  and  wide, 

The  streams  whereof  rejoice 

The  city  of  the  Lord  Most  High, 

The  city  of  His  choice. 

Our  God  is  in  the  midst  of  her, 

And  she  shall  not  be  moved; 

That  God  will  help,  and  early  too, 

He  countless  times  hath  proved. 

The  heathen  vainly  raged  and  stormed 
Against  His  kingdom  fair; 

He  uttered  low  His  voice,  and  soon 
Their  hosts  defeated  were. 

The  Lord  of  Hosts  is  with  us  still, 

Our  refuge  is  in  God; 

And  though  we  desolations  see, 

We’ll  trust  His  guiding  rod. 

He  maketh  wars  to  cease;  the  earth 
With  lasting  peace  He  fills; 

He  breaks  the  bow  and  spear,  and  burns 
The  chariot  when  He  wills. 


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79 


Be  still,  and  know  that  I  am  God; 

I  will  exalted  be 

Among  the  heathen,  and  will  rule 
The  earth  from  sea  to  sea. 


The  Lord  of  Hosts  is  with  us  still; 

God  is  our  refuge  now; 

Before  His  face,  in  joy  or  grief, 
With  trusting  hearts  we  bow. 


PSALM  47 

Praise  the  Lord  with  glad  rejoicing; 

All  ye  people  sing  His  praise; 
Shout  aloud,  His  triumph  voicing, 
Joyful  hallelujahs  raise; 

He  is  mighty, 

Over  all  His  scepter  sways. 


He’ll  subdue  the  nations  for  us; 

Put  the  tribes  beneath  our  feet; 
All  the  land  He  will  restore  us, 
Pour  on  us  His  blessings  sweet: 

Praise  Him!  praise  Him! 

Let  us  now  His  praise  repeat. 


With  a  shout  the  Lord  ascendeth, 
And  a  victory  doth  bring: 
With  a  song  that  never  endeth, 
We  Jehovah’s  praises  sing; 
Hallelujah! 

Praise  we  give  unto  our  King. 


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THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


God  is  King  of  ev’ry  nation; 

Sing  His  praise,  His  kingdom  own ; 
He  hath  given  us  salvation, 

He  hath  favor  to  us  shown; 
Praise  eternal, 

Doth  become  Him  on  His  throne. 


PSALM  48 

Mighty  is  the  Lord  Jehovah; 

He  is  greatly  to  be  praised, 

In  the  city  where  He  dwelleth, 

In  the  mountain  He  hath  raised. 

Beautiful  for  situation, 

Joy  of  all  the  earth,  we  sing, 

Is  Mount  Zion,  well  surrounded, 

City  of  our  God  and  King. 

God  is  known  in  all  her  dwellings. 

For  a  refuge  sure  and  strong; 

Hostile  kings  were  there  assembled, 
And  together  passed  along; 

When  they  saw  it,  lo!  they  marveled, 
And  in  trouble  turned  away, 

For  a  fear  took  hold  upon  them, 

As  the  sight  before  them  lay. 

As  we’ve  heard  it,  so  we’ve  seen  it, 

In  the  city  of  the  Lord; 

God  established  it  forever, 

E’en  according  to  His  word. 

We  have  meditated  often 

Of  Thy  lovingkindness  here; 

And  while  seated  in  Thy  temple, 

We  have  praised  with  trembling  fear. 


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81 


Lord,  as  is  Thy  name  for  greatness, 
So  Thy  praise  doth  fill  the  earth; 
Righteousness  Thy  being  filleth; 

Thou  to  righteous  laws  gave  birth. 
Let  rejoicings  fill  Mount  Zion, 

And  let  Judah  still  rejoice; 

Yea,  because  of  righteous  judgments, 
Praise  we  with  united  voice. 


Walk,  ye  saints,  about  on  Zion, 

And  go  round  her  walls  with  care; 
Tell  the  number  of  her  towers, 

And  the  watchmen  stationed  there; 
Mark  ye  well  her  mighty  bulwarks, 
Look  on  all  her  palaces, 

That  to  others,  coming  after, 

You  may  give  account  of  these. 


For  this  God,  so  great  and  holy, 

Is  our  God  for  evermore; 

We  would  seek  His  temple  daily, 
There  to  worship  and  adore; 

He,  through  life’s  uncertain  journey, 
Will  at  all  times  be  our  guide; 
And  at  death  He  will  receive  us, 

Ever  with  Him  to  abide. 


PSALM  49 

Hear  this,  ye  people  all; 

Unto  my  words  give  ear; 

Both  rich  and  poor  attend  my  words, 
While  I  the  truth  make  clear. 


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THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


I  shall  of  wisdom  speak, 

Of  wisdom  from  on  high ; 

The  meditations  of  my  heart 
Unto  the  truth  are  nigh. 

Unto  a  parable 

I  will  mine  ear  incline; 

My  sayings  dark  I  will  declare 
Upon  the  harp  divine. 

Oh!  wherefore  should  I  fear 
When  come  the  evil  days? 

E’en  days  when  foes  encompass  me, 
And  trouble  with  me  stays? 

They  that  trust  in  their  wealth, 

And  of  their  riches  boast, 

Are  helpless  when  death  beckons  them 
To  join  the  silent  host. 

Not  one  his  brother  can, 

From  death  eternal  save; 

Nor  cause  the  lifeless  body  there, 

To  rise  from  out  the  grave. 

A  costly  price  was  paid, 

To  save  the  precious  soul, 

That  it  might  live  for  evermore, 

While  ceaseless  ages  roll. 

The  wise  men  daily  die; 

The  foolish  are  laid  low; 

They  leave  their  wealth  to  others,  for 
It  cannot  with  them  go. 


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83 


Their  inward  thought  has  been, 

Our  houses  shall  abide; 

And  generations  following, 

Shall  still  in  them  reside. 

Yet  man  in  honor  here 
Abideth  not  always; 

He,  like  the  beasts  that  perish,  lives 
But  his  allotted  days. 

They,  all,  like  sheep,  are  laid 
Within  the  grave  at  last; 

Worms  feed  on  them;  their  beauty  dies; 
Their  power,  too,  is  past. 

But  in  the  time  to  come, 

God  will  my  soul  retrieve, 

And  lift  it  from  the  darksome  tomb, 

And  me  He  will  receive. 

When  one  is  here  made  rich, 

Oh!  be  not  thou  afraid; 

He  leaveth  all  at  death,  and  he 
Within  the  grave  is  laid. 

Though,  while  he  lived  he  blessed 
His  soul,  and  took  his  ease — 

For  men  will  praise  thee,  when  thy  wealth 
Consists  of  things  like  these. 

Like  his  forefathers,  he 

Shall  see  no  more  the  light; 

A  foolish  man  in  honor  dies; 

As  die  the  beasts  at  night. 


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THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


PSALM  50 

The  mighty  God,  the  Lord  of  hosts, 

Hath  spoken  with  a  voice  divine, 

And  called  the  earth  from  where  the  sun 
Doth  rise,  to  where  its  beams  decline. 

From  Zion,  the  abode  of  God, 

That  temple  built  with  matchless  grace, 

Perfect  and  strong  in  all  its  parts, 

Is  seen  the  shining  of  his  face. 

Our  God  will  come  in  dread  array; 

Nature  and  man  his  voice  shall  hear; 

Before  him  shall  a  fire  rage 

And  burn  the  evil  far  and  near. 

Unto  the  heavenly  hosts  above, 

And  to  the  earth  the  Lord  will  call 

His  saints,  though  far  and  wide  dispersed, 
He’ll  gather  and  reward  them  all. 

The  heavens,  with  united  voice, 

His  truth  and  justice  shall  declare, 

For  God  himself  alone  is  judge, 

And  gives  to  each  a  righteous  share. 

Hear,  O  my  flock !  and  I  will  speak ; 

O  Jacob!  I  will  testify 

Against  thee  while  thy  sacrifice, 

Still  smoking,  doth  before  me  lie. 

Seeing  thou  dost  instruction  hate, 

And  all  my  words  behind  thee  cast; 

With  thieves  and  evil  doers  thou 
Art  found  to  be  in  friendship  fast. 


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85 


Thy  mouth  is  filled  with  evil,  and 
Thy  tongue  is  framed  to  all  deceit ; 

Thou  slanderest  thy  mother’s  son, 

And  would  his  lawful  aims  defeat. 

These  things,  O  sinful  man,  thou  hast 
In  secrecy  and  darkness  done, 

Forgetting  that  mine  eye  doth  see 
The  hidden  deeds  of  ev’ry  one. 

I  will  reprove  thee,  and  will  set 

Thine  evil  deeds  before  mine  eyes; 

O  heed!  lest  thou  shouldst  fall  away, 
Where  mercy  ne’er  shall  hear  thy  cries. 

Oh!  ye  that  do  your  God  forget, 
Consider  this  and  on  him  call, 

Lest  he,  in  justice,  soon  shall  cause 
Thy  frame,  dismembered,  there  to  fall. 

He  glorifies  my  name  who  doth 
An  offering  of  praise  bestow; 

To  him  who  speaks  and  lives  aright, 

I  will  salvation  freely  show. 

PSALM  5 1 

Have  mercy  on  me,  O  my  God! 

Withhold,  I  pray,  Thy  chast’ning  rod! 

May  I  forgiveness  with  Thee  find; 

Blot  my  transgressions  from  Thy  mind. 

Wash  me  from  mine  iniquity; 

Cleanse  me,  that  I  may  guiltless  be; 

My  sins  of  life  before  me  rise, — 

They  come  unbidden  to  mine  eyes. 


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’Gainst  Thee  I’ve  sinned  in  Heaven’s  light, 
And  done  this  evil  in  Thy  sight : 

Thou,  Thou  art  justified,  O  God, 

To  lay  on  me  Thy  chast’ning  rod. 

I  in  iniquity  was  born; 

Sin  conquered  me  in  life’s  first  morn; 

But  truth  Thou  didst  within  me  sow, 

And  wisdom  give,  that  truth  to  know. 

Purge  me  with  hyssop  as  Thou  wilt, 

So  that  my  soul  be  cleansed  from  guilt; 
Thy  sacrificial  blood  bestow, 

And  I  shall  whiter  be  than  snow. 

Let  joy  and  gladness  fill  my  heart; 

Let  chastisement  new  peace  impart: 

From  all  my  sins,  Lord,  hide  Thy  face; 
Leave  not  of  their  vile  blot  a  trace. 

Create  in  me  a  heart  that’s  clean; 

From  ev’ry  sin  my  spirit  wean: 

Oh!  cast  me  not  away  from  Thee ; 

Take  not  Thy  Spirit,  Lord,  from  me. 

The  joy  of  Thy  salvation,  now 
Restore,  as  I  before  Thee  bow; 

With  Thy  rich  grace  my  soul  uphold, 

And  in  Thy  service  make  me  bold. 

From  sins  of  blood  deliver  me; 

Grant  unto  me  salvation  free; 

Then  shall  my  tongue  Thy  praises  sing; 

My  mouth  shall  testimony  bring. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


87 


Open  my  lips,  that  I  may  raise 
A  song  that’s  new  unto  Thy  praise; 
Unseal  my  mouth,  that  it  may  speak 
A  word  of  warning  to  the  weak. 


No  sacrifice  dost  Thou  desire; 

No  offering  that’s  burnt  with  fire; 
Or  still  in  these  would  I  delight, 
And  bring  of  them  before  Thy  sight. 


What  sacrifice,  Lord,  wouldst  Thou  see? 
A  broken  spirit  it  should  be, 

A  broken  and  a  contrite  heart, — 

For  these,  O  Lord,  Thy  grace  impart. 


Do  good  in  Thy  good  pleasure,  Lord, 
To  Zion;  strength  to  her  afford; 
Jerusalem,  build  Thou  her  walls, 
And  heed  when  she  upon  Thee  calls. 

Then  shall  her  offerings  delight, 

And  pleasant  be  in  Heaven’s  sight; 
Then  bullocks,  on  Thine  altar  there 
Shall  offered  be,  and  gifts  most  rare. 


PSALM  52 

Why  now  in  wisdom  boast, 

O  mighty  man  of  clay? 

God’s  goodness  evermore  endures, 
It  passes  not  away: 

Evil,  alas!  thy  tongue  employs, 

It  seeks  the  good  and  it  destroys. 


88 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Thou  lovest  evil  more 
Than  the  enduring  good; 

And  lying  lips,  instead  of  true, 

Are  to  thee  pleasant  food: 

Thy  words  destroy  both  old  and  young, 
E’en  thine,  deceitful,  wicked  tongue. 


God  will  thee  soon  destroy, 

O  bold,  deceitful  man! 

He’ll  pluck  thee  from  thy  dwelling  place, 
And  spoil  thine  ev’ry  plan: 

The  righteous,  also,  this  shall  see, 

And  fear  on  all  around  shall  be. 

They,  wondering,  shall  say: 

Lo!  was  not  this  the  man 

That  made  not  God  his  strength,  and  thus 
To  his  destruction  ran? 

They  answer:  It  was  he  indeed, 

Now  others  on  his  riches  feed. 

But  I  am  like  a  tree, 

An  olive  tree  that’s  green, 

And  daily  in  the  house  of  God, 

I,  worshiping,  am  seen; 

In  God,  the  Lord,  is  all  my  trust; 

For  He  alone  is  wise  and  just. 

Thee  will  I  praise  always, 

O  Triune  God  in  One! 

Forever  I  will  praise  Thy  work, 

Because  Thou  hast  it  done; 

Yea,  I  will  wait  upon  Thy  name, 

And  it  to  all  the  saints  proclaim. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


89 


PSALM  53 

The  fool  hath  proudly  said 
Within  his  darkened  heart: 

There  is  no  God.  Corrupt  art  they; 
They  do  from  good  depart. 

The  Lord  looked  down  from  Heaven 
Upon  this  sinful  race, 

To  see  if  any  understood, 

And  sought  in  truth  His  face. 

He  found  them  all  gone  back; 

He  found  them  all  undone; 

Not  one  among  them  doeth  good, 
Not  one,  alas!  not  one. 

Have  they  no  knowledge  then, 

Who  trespass  on  my  saint s? 

The  Lord  will  soon  His  own  avenge; 
He  heareth  their  complaints. 

Though  they  at  times  had  fear, 

God  did  their  foes  disband, 

And  scattered  such  as  did  them  ill, 

By  His  almighty  hand. 

Oh!  that  salvation  were 
For  Israel  wrought  out! 

Then  would  the  hosts  of  Zion  join 
In  one  exultant  shout. 

When  God,  the  Lord,  brings  back 
The  people  of  His  choice. 

Then  Israel  shall  give  acclaim, 

And  Jacob  shall  rejoice. 


90 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


PSALM  54 

Save  me  by  Thy  name,  O  Lord; 

Judge  me  by  Thy  strength  divine; 
Hear  my  prayer;  Thy  help  afford; 

Heed  these  contrite  words  of  mine. 
Strangers  do  against  me  rise, 

And  my  soul  oppressors  seek; 

God  is  not  before  their  eyes ; 

They  against  me  daily  speak. 

God  alone  my  helper  is; 

’Tis  His  Spirit  me  upholds; 

He  will  fight  for  me  in  this, 

For  His  promise  me  enfolds; 

He  my  foes  will  soon  destroy, 

He  will  quickly  cut  them  off; 
Power  divine  He  will  employ 

’Gainst  mine  enemies  that  scoff. 

I  will  sacrifice  to  Thee, 

And  will  praise  Thy  name,  O  Lord, 
For  Thou  hast  delivered  me; 

Lo!  Thou  didst  me  help  afford; 

And  mine  eye  hath  seen  Thy  power 
On  mine  enemies  of  old; 

Thou  hast  brought  me  to  this  hour, 

Thy  salvation  to  behold. 


PSALM  55 

Give  ear  unto  my  prayer, 

Thyself  with  it  acquaint; 

Attend  unto  me,  Lord,  and  hear; 
I  mourn  in  my  complaint. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


91 


I  mourn  because  the  voice 
Of  foes  against  me  speaks ; 

Because  the  wicked  me  oppress, 

My  heart  Thine  altar  seeks. 

They  evil  on  me  cast; 

In  wrath  they  do  me  hate; 

My  heart  is  pained  within  me,  and 
Death’s  terrors  I  await. 

A  fearfulness  untold, 

And  trembling,  weigh  me  down; 
A  horror  hath  o’erwhelmed  my  soul; 
I  sink  beneath  Thy  frown. 

I  said,  O  that  I  had 

Wings,  like  a  dove,  to  fly; 

Then  would  I  soar  away  and  rest 
’Neath  some  serener  sky. 

Lo!  then  I’d  wander  far 
From  ills  of  ev'ry  form; 

With  joy  I’d  hasten  my  escape 
From  tempest  and  from  storm. 

Destroy  my  foes,  O  Lord; 

Their  evil  tongues  divide; 

Within  the  city  I  have  seen 

The  strife  they  could  not  hide. 

By  day  and  night  they  walk 
About  upon  the  walls; 

A  sorrow  doth  their  steps  attend, 

A  blight  around  them  falls. 


92 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


For  in  the  midst  thereof 
Are  evils  and  deceits ; 

Deceit  and  guile  of  darkest  hue, 
Depart  not  from  her  streets. 

*Twas  not  a  foe  that  did 

Reproach  me  thus  with  scorn, 

Nor  was  it  one  that  hated  me — 
This  could  my  soul  have  borne. 

But  it  was  thou,  a  man 
Mine  equal  and  my  friend; 

Together  we  sweet  counsel  took, 
And  did  God’s  house  attend. 

Let  death  upon  them  seize; 

Let  them  go  down  to  hell, 

For  wickedness  among  them  is, 

Sin  doth  among  them  dwell. 

But  as  for  me,  I  now 

Will  call  upon  the  Lord; 

From  evil  He  will  save  His  own, 
According  to  His  word. 

At  eve,  and  morn,  and  noon, 

The  Lord  shall  be  my  choice; 

To  Him  I’ll  pray  and  cry  aloud, 
And  He  will  hear  my  voice. 

He  to  my  soul  hath  given 

Sweet  peace  from  conflicts  hot; 

From  battles  that  against  me  were, 
He  hath  deliv’rance  wrought. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


93 


The  Lord  shall  them  afflict 
That  in  their  sins  abide; 

Because  they  change  not,  they  no  more 
Beneath  His  care  reside. 

The  wicked  reacheth  out 

’Gainst  such  as  are  at  peace; 

His  covenant  he  broken  hath, 

His  evil  deeds  increase. 

His  words  like  butter  were, 

But  war  was  in  his  heart; 

His  words  appeared  like  oil,  but  they 
Were  swords  to  rend  apart. 

Thy  burden  cast  on  God, 

And  He  shall  thee  sustain; 

The  righteous  never  shall  be  moved; 
Secure  they  shall  remain. 

But  Thou  shalt  soon  destroy 
Such  as  depart  from  Thee; 

Short  is  their  life;  but  in  Thy  word 
My  trust  shall  ever  be. 

PSALM  56 

Be  merciful  to  me,  O  God! 

For  man  would  me  destroy; 

He,  fighting,  doth  oppress  me  sore; 

My  foes  he  doth  employ. 

Mine  enemies  would  rise  to  bring 
My  swift  destruction  nigh; 

For  there  are  many  that  unite 
Against  me,  O  Most  High. 


94 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


What  time  that  I  am  sore  afraid, 

Then  will  I  trust  in  Thee ; 

In  times  of  peril,  Thou,  O  Lord, 

My  ready  help  wilt  be. 

In  God  1*11  praise  His  holy  word, 

In  God  I’  Ve  put  my  trust; 

I  will  not  fear  what  man  can  do, 

For  God,  the  Lord,  is  just. 

They  ev’ry  day  do  twist  my  words, 

And  do  my  hurt  devise; 

They  hide  themselves,  they  mark  my  steps, 
And  then  against  me  rise. 

Shall  they  in  their  iniquity 

Escape  Thine  out-stretched  rod? 

In  anger  cast  these  people  down! 

Avenge  me,  O  my  God! 

Thou  tellest  all  my  wanderings; 

Thou  dost  upon  me  look; 

Collect,  O  Lord,  my  falling  tears! 

Are  they  not  in  Thy  book? 

When  I  unto  Thee  cry  for  aid, 

Then  shall  my  foes  turn  back; 

For  God  is  for  me,  this  I  know; 

His  help  I  shall  not  lack. 

My  heart  shall  ever  praise  the  Lord; 

In  Him  is  all  my  trust; 

I  will  not  fear  what  man  can  do, 

For  God,  our  God,  is  just. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


95 


Thy  holy  vows  are  on  me  laid; 

Thy  name  I’ll  ever  praise; 

Yea,  I  will  wait  before  Thee,  Lord, 

And  serve  Thee  all  my  days. 

For  Thou  hast  saved  my  soul  from  death: 

Guide  Thou  my  steps  aright, 

That  I  in  ways  of  holiness, 

May  give  to  others  light. 

PSALM  57 

Be  merciful  to  me,  O  God! 

Be  merciful,  O  Lord,  to  me; 

My  soul,  when  bowed  beneath  Thy  rod, 
Doth  put  her  trust  alone  in  Thee. 

Yea,  in  the  shadow  of  Thy  wings, 

I  will  myself  for  refuge  cast; 

Their  shade  a  sanctuary  brings 
Till  these  calamities  are  past. 

I’ll  cry  unto  my  God,  Most  High; 

To  God,  who  all  things  doth  perform, 
And  He  shall  for  my  help  draw  nigh, 

And  rescue  me  from  out  the  storm. 

From  Heaven  He  will  send  relief, 

And  save  me  from  mine  enemies; 

Yea,  in  the  time  of  strife  and  grief, 

He  will  protect  my  life  from  these. 

’Mong  lions,  lo!  my  soul  is  found; 

Fierce  men  of  wrath  I  am  among, 

Whose  teeth  are  spears  and  arrows  ground, 
And  like  a  sharpened  sword,  their  tongue. 


96 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Be  Thou  exalted,  O  my  King! 

Above  the  heavens  place  Thy  throne, 

And  let  Thy  praises  ever  ring 

Upon  the  earth  from  zone  to  zone. 

They’ve  for  my  steps  a  net  prepared — 

The  thought  doth  fill  my  soul  with  pain — 

They’ve  digged  a  pit,  but  lo!  ensnared, 
They  fall  therein,  and  thus  are  slain. 

My  heart  is  fixed,  O  God ;  my  heart 
Is  fixed !  and  I  will  give  Thee  praise ; 

Awake  my  tongue,  and  praise  impart, 

With  harp  well  tuned  an  anthem  raise. 

Thee  will  1  praise,  O  Lord,  my  King, 

Among  the  people  of  my  birth; 

To  Thee  with  joyfulness  I’ll  sing 
Among  the  nations  of  the  earth. 

For  lo!  Thy  mercy,  Lord,  doth  reach 
Unto  the  heavens  far  above; 

Thy  truth,  high  as  the  clouds,  doth  teach 
How  perfect  is  Thy  changeless  love. 

Be  Thou  exalted!  O  my  King; 

Above  the  heavens  place  Thy  throne; 

And  let  Thy  praises  ever  ring 

Upon  the  earth  from  zone  to  zone. 

PSALM  58 

Speak  ye  in  righteousness, 

O  congregation,  then? 

And  do  ye  judge  uprightly  now, 

Ye  fallen  sons  of  men? 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


97 


Yea,  in  your  hearts  ye  work 
The  works  of  wickedness; 

Ye  weigh  the  deeds  of  violence, 

And  bring  on  all  distress. 

The  wicked  are  estranged 

From  all  that’s  pure  and  right; 

As  soon  as  they  are  born  they  stray; 

In  lies  they  take  delight. 

The  poison  of  their  tongue 
Is  like  the  serpent’s  sting; 

Like  adders  deaf,  they  stop  the  ear, 

Nor  heed  when  charmers  sing. 

Break  Thou  their  teeth,  O  Lord! 

The  teeth  of  lions  young, 

The  teeth  of  such  as  would  destroy 
The  righteous  with  their  tongue. 

Let  them  fast  melt  away, 

As  waters  disappear; 

When  he  doth  bend  his  bow  to  shoot, 
Bring  his  destruction  near. 

As  melts  the  snail  that  crawls, 

So  let  them  pass  away; 

As  dies  the  unborn  child,  let  them 
Not  see  the  light  of  day. 

Before  your  pots  can  feel 
The  warmth  above  the  fire, 

God,  as  a  whirlwind,  shall  destroy 
The  wicked  in  His  ire. 


98 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


The  righteous  shall  rejoice, 

When  he  God’s  vengeance  sees; 

And  while  he  views  their  flowing  blood, 
He’ll  worship  at  his  ease. 

So  that  a  man  shall  say, 

A  just  reward  awaits 
The  righteous  while  on  earth,  and  when 
They  reach  the  heavenly  gates. 

PSALM  59 

Defend  me  from  mine  enemies, 

From  such  as  do  against  me  rise; 
Deliver  me  from  evil  men, 

Nor  let  them  e’er  Thy  grace  despise. 

For  lo!  they  lie  in  ambush  still, 

To  catch  my  soul  they  lie  in  wait; 

Not  my  transgressions,  nor  my  sin, 
Aroused  in  them  this  bitter  hate. 

They  run,  and  do  prepare  themselves 
Without  my  fault;  and  are  most  bold; 
Awake  to  help  me,  O  my  God! 

My  anguish  and  distress  behold. 

Awake!  awake!  O  Lord  of  Hosts; 

O  God  of  Israel,  awake! 

And  visit  Thou  the  heathen  tribes, 

Nor  let  Thy  vengeance  pity  take. 

When  darkness  comes,  they  do  return, 

And  round  the  city  seek  for  prey; 

Sharp  words,  reviling,  pass  their  lips; 

For  who,  for  who,  shall  hear?  they  say. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


99 


But  ah!  the  time  will  surely  come, 

When  Thou  wilt  at  them  laugh,  O  Lord; 

In  Thy  derision  Thou  wilt  pierce 

Their  hearts  with  Thine  avenging  sword. 

Because  the  Lord,  my  God,  is  strong, 

My  soul  shall  safely  rest  on  Thee; 

For  God  alone  is  my  defence, 

He  my  defence  and  strength  shall  be. 

The  God  of  grace  shall  me  prevent; 

My  gracious  God  shall  let  me  see; 

Shall  let  me  see  my  strong  desire 
Descend  upon  mine  enemy. 

Slay  Thou  them  not;  disperse  afar, 

Lest  otherwise  Thy  saints  forget; 

Bring  Thou  them  down,  O  Lord,  our  Shield; 
Their  pride  in  lonely  places  set. 

The  sinful  words  their  lips  did  speak, 

For  such  consume  them  in  Thy  wrath; 

So  let  them  know  that  God  doth  reign, 

And  on  the  earth  a  kingdom  hath. 

At  evening  time  let  them  return, 

And  search  for  meat  the  city  round; 

A  meat  alas!  which  has  no  strength 
To  satisfy  when  it  is  found. 

But  I  will  of  Thy  power  sing, 

And  of  Thy  mercy  sing  aloud; 

Yea,  in  the  morn,  when  dawns  the  light, 

I'll  sing  with  head  before  Thee  bowed. 


100 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


For  Thou  hast  been  my  sure  defence, 

My  refuge  in  life's  darksome  day; 

To  Thee,  my  God,  I’ll  ever  sing, 

And  worship  Thee  along  the  way. 

PSALM  60 

Lord,  Thou  hast  cast  us  off, 

And  scattered  us  like  rain; 

With  Thine  Thou  hast  been  sore  displeased; 
Turn,  turn  to  us  again. 

Yea,  Thou  hast  made  the  earth 
To  tremble  and  to  shake; 

Heal,  Thou,  the  breaches  all  thereof, 

For  it  in  fear  doth  quake. 

Thou  hast  the  people  shown, 

Things  hard  to  understand; 

The  wine  of  sorrow  Thou  hast  bid 
Us  drink  from  Thine  own  hand. 

A  banner  Thou  hast  given 
To  them  that  do  Thee  fear, 

That  it  may  be  displayed,  because 
Thy  truth  to  them  is  dear. 

That  Thy  beloved  may  be 
Delivered  from  all  ill, 

Save  me,  O  Lord,  with  Thy  right  hand; 

In  mercy  hear  me  still. 

In  holiness  the  Lord 

To  me  hath  given  voice: 

I  will  divide  the  land,  and  will 
In  all  my  works  rejoice. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


101 


Fair  Gilead  is  mine; 

I  o’er  Manasseh  spread, 

And  Ephraim,  also,  is  the  strength 
Of  my  long  sufFring  head. 

Judah,  a  child  beloved, 

My  lawgiver  shall  be; 

Moab  and  Edom,  and  the  rest, 
Rejoice  because  of  me! 

Who,  who  will  bring  me  up 
Into  the  city  strong? 

Who  will  me  into  Edom  lead 
With  a  triumphant  song? 

Wilt  Thou  not,  O  my  God, 

Who  hast  us  cast  away? 

Thou  who  didst  not  go  out  with  us 
To  where  our  armies  lay? 

From  trouble  give  us  help; 

Vain  is  the  help  of  man; 

Who  will  us  aid  in  our  distress? 
Tis  God  alone  who  can. 

Through  God  we  shall  do  well, 

If  we  His  truth  employ, 

For  He  it  is  that  will  tread  down 
Our  foes,  and  them  destroy. 

PSALM  61 

Hear  my  cry,  O  Lord  Jehovah, 
And  attend  unto  my  prayer; 
From  the  earth’s  remotest  border, 
I  will  call  and  seek  Thee  there; 


102 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


When  my  heart  is  over  burdened, 

Then,  O  Lord,  to  Thee  I’ll  cry; 

Lead  me  to  the  Rock  Eternal, 

Rock  that  higher  is  than  I. 

Thou  hast  been  a  shelter  for  me 
In  my  times  of  deep  distress; 

And  Thou  art  a  tower  of  refuge 

When  fierce  foes  around  me  press. 

I  within  Thy  tabernacle 
Shall  for  evermore  abide; 

I  will  trust,  and  in  the  covert 
Of  Thy  wings  will  safely  hide. 

Lord,  I’ve  vowed,  and  Thou  hast  heard  me, 
And  a  heritage  bestowed, 

Joy  and  peace,  and  life  eternal, 

Till  my  cup  has  overflowed. 

O  prepare  Thy  truth  and  mercy! 

They  will  save  ’mid  stress  and  storm : 

Lord,  I’ll  praise  Thy  name  forever, 

And  my  sacred  vows  perform. 


PSALM  62 

My  soul  doth  wait  on  God  alone; 
My  life  doth  issue  from  His  throne; 

He,  only,  is  my  Rock; 

He’s  my  salvation  and  defence, 

I  shall  not  be  removed  hence, 

But  dwell  amidst  the  flock. 

How  long  will  ye  imagine  ill 
Against  a  man?  It  is  my  will 
That  ye  shall  all  be  slain; 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


103 


Ye  shall,  e’en  as  a  bowing  wall, 

And  as  a  tott’ring  fence,  soon  fall, 

Nor  rise  from  earth  again. 

They  only  do  consult  to  cast 
Down  to  the  earth  the  saints  at  last; 

They  all  delight  in  lies; 

With  blessing  they  their  mouth  engage, 
But  inwardly  they  curse  with  rage, 

And  ev’ry  ill  devise. 

On  God  alone,  my  soul,  now  wait; 

My  surest  hope  He  doth  create; 

He  is  my  only  Rock; 

He’s  my  salvation,  my  defence; 

I  shall  not  be  removed  hence, 

However  man  may  mock. 

1  glory  in  His  guiding  rod; 

My  strength,  my  refuge,  is  in  God; 

Oh,  trust  Him  all  who  fear! 

Trust  Him!  trust  Him!  ye  fearful  saints; 
Tell  unto  Him  all  your  complaints; 

He  is  our  refuge  near. 

For  surely  men  of  low  degree 
Are  found  to  be  but  vanity; 

Deceitful  are  the  high: 

In  wicked  schemes  put  not  your  trust, 
Nor  let  your  heart  on  glitt’ring  dust, 
For  happiness  rely. 

The  Lord  hath  spoken  once,  yea,  lo! 
Twice  have  I  heard  that  power  below 
Doth  unto  Him  belong; 


104 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


And  justice,  too,  for  Thou  dost  give 

To  all  according  as  they  live, 

In  righteous  deeds,  or  wrong. 

PSALM  63 

O  God,  Thou  art  my  God; 

Thee  will  I  early  seek ; 

My  soul  doth  thirst  for  Thee,  my  flesh 
Longs  for  Thee,  and  is  weak. 

Here  in  a  thirsty  land, 

Where  are  no  water  springs, 

To  see  Thy  power  and  glory,  I 
Would  rise  on  faith’s  swift  wings. 

Thy  loving  kindness  is 
To  me  exceeding  dear, 

I’ll  ever  praise  Thy  holy  name, 

And  worship  Thee  in  fear. 

Thus  will  I  bless  Thee,  Lord, 

While  yet  I  have  my  breath; 

I’ll  lift  my  hands  up  in  Thy  name 
Till  they  relax  in  death. 

My  soul  shall  surely  now 
With  nourishment  be  fed, 

When  I,  in  meditations  sweet, 

Praise  Thee  upon  my  bed. 

Because  Thou,  Lord,  hast  been 
My  help  and  heard  my  voice, 

I,  in  the  shadow  of  Thy  wings, 

Shall  ever  more  rejoice. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


105 


My  soul  shall  follow  hard, 

To  reach  for  Thee,  my  God; 

Thy  right  hand,  it  upholdeth  me; 

I’m  guided  by  Thy  rod. 

All  those  that  seek  my  soul, 

It  to  destroy  and  kill, 

Shall  by  Thy  sword  be  slain,  and  shall 
Earth’s  lowest  portions  fill. 

But  he,  who  rules  as  king, 

Shall  in  the  Lord  rejoice; 

Yea,  ev’ry  one  that  serves  the  Lord, 

Shall  praise  him  with  the  voice. 

Not  so  the  tongues  of  them 
That  love  to  frame  deceit; 

The  mouth  of  such  shall  soon  be  stopped, 

Nor  lies  can  they  repeat. 

PSALM  64 

Now  while  my  voice  ascends  above, 

Hear  Thou  my  prayer,  O  God  of  love; 

When  I  of  secret  foes  have  fear, 

Then  to  preserve  my  life  draw  near. 

From  those  who  secret  counsel  take, 

Hide  me,  and  for  my  cause  awake; 

From  insurrection  set  me  free, 

From  those  who  work  iniquity. 

E’en  those  who  whet  their  tongues  to  speak 
in  bitter  words  against  the  weak, 

That  they  the  righteous  thus  may  harm, 

And  thrust  at  him  without  alarm. 


106 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


They  would  themselves  encourage  in 
An  evil  matter,  full  of  sin; 

Yea,  snares  they  lay  quite  privately, 
And  whisper  low:  Who  shall  them  see? 

Iniquities  they  would  search  out; 

Yea,  them  to  find,  they  search  about; 
The  inward  thought  of  all  of  them, 

Is  how  they  may  the  good  o’erwhelm. 

But  God  will  soon  an  arrow  cast, 

And  they  shall  wounded  be  at  last; 
Their  weapons  on  themselves  shall  fall, 
But  none  shall  heed  their  anguished  call. 

And  men,  believing,  then  shall  fear 
To  see  this  judgment  swift  appear; 
They’ll  there  declare  the  work  of  God, 
And  own  ’twas  His  avenging  rod. 

The  righteous  shall  be  glad  in  Him; 
Naught  can  their  trust  hereafter  dim; 
All,  all  the  upright  shall  rejoice, 

And  praise  Him  with  united  voice. 


PSALM  65 

Praise  awaiteth  now  for  Thee, 

O  my  God,  in  Zion  fair; 

Now  our  vows  performed  shall  be, 
Vows  that  we  unto  Thee  sware. 
O  Thou  King  in  Heaven  high, 

Hear  our  prayers  as  they  ascend; 
Unto  Thee  shall  we  draw  nigh; 
Saving  grace  to  us  extend. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


107 


Evils  great  ‘gainst  me  prevail; 

Lord,  they  do  upon  me  stay; 

Yet,  though  sins  do  us  assail, 

Thou  wilt  wash  them  all  away. 

Blessed  is  the  man  whom  Thou 
Causest  to  approach  to  Thee, 

That  he  in  Thy  courts  may  bow, 

In  Thy  presence  ever  be. 

Yea,  we  satisfied  shall  be 

With  the  goodness  that  surrounds 

Thy  sweet  habitation  free, 

Where  all  righteousness  abounds; 

E’en  Thy  holy  temple  fair, 

Where  assemble  all  Thy  saints; 

Yea,  they  meet  to  worship  there, 
Voicing  praise  and  sad  complaints. 

There,  in  awful  righteousness, 

Thou  wilt  answer  us,  O  God; 

Thou,  our  hope  in  times  of  stress, 
Lead  us  onward  by  Thy  rod. 

Thou,  who  by  Thy  strength  alone, 
Settest  fast  the  mountains  high; 

Thou  who  stillest  the  dread  moan 
Of  the  waves  as  they  come  nigh. 

They  that  dwell  in  parts  afar, 

Tremble  at  thine  unknown  voice; 

Yet  the  morning,  without  mar, 

And  the  evening  time  rejoice. 

Thou  dost  visit  all  the  earth, 

And  its  waters  cause  to  flow. 

Thou  to  all  things  giveth  birth, 

And  Thou  causest  them  to  grow. 


108 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Ridges  Thou  dost  fill  with  rain, 

And  the  furrows  fruitful  make, 

So  that  man  plants  not  in  vain, 

So  that  sleeping  seeds  awake. 

Thou  dost  crown  the  passing  year 
With  Thy  goodness  ev’ry  day, 

And  Thy  paths,  afar  and  near, 
Fatness  drop  along  the  way. 

Drop  upon  the  pastures  green, 

Where  was  once  but  desert  wide; 

And  the  little  hills  are  seen 
To  rejoice  on  ev’ry  side. 

Fields  with  flocks  are  clothed  about, 
And  the  valleys  wave  with  corn; 

Yea,  for  very  joy  they  shout, 

Shout  and  sing  at  eve  and  morn. 


PSALM  66 

Come,  make  a  joyful  noise 
Unto  the  Lord  Most  High! 

Ye  distant  lands  and  near, 

Unto  the  Lord  draw  nigh: 

Sing  forth  the  honor  of  His  name; 
Ye  saints,  His  glory  now  proclaim. 


How  terrible  art  Thou 

In  mighty  works,  O  God! 

Thine  enemies  shall  all 
Submit  unto  Thy  rod: 

Yea,  all  the  earth  shall  worship  Thee; 
A  sacred  choir  it  shall  be. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


109 


Come  ye,  and  see  the  works 
Of  God  throughout  the  land; 
What  wonders  He  hath  wrought 
By  His  almighty  hand; 

To  solid  earth  He  turned  the  sea; 
At  his  command  the  waves  did  flee. 

Our  hearts  were  lifted  up, 

There  did  we  all  rejoice, 

And  gladly  did  obey 

The  Lord’s  exalted  voice: 

With  power  He  ruleth  over  all, 
And  nations  great  before  Him  fall. 

Ye  people,  bless  the  Lord! 

He  hath  His  mercy  proved; 

He  holds  our  souls  in  life, 

Nor  lets  our  feet  be  moved; 

Lord,  Thou  hast  proved  us,  nor  denied 
To  try  us  e’en  as  gold  is  tried. 

Thou  didst  entangle  us 
In  nets  laid  for  our  feet; 

Our  hearts  were  filled  with  pain; 

We  did  affliction  meet; 

Men  came  and  conquered  us  anew, 
Fire  and  water  we  passed  through. 

But  Thou  didst  bring  us  out 
Into  a  wealthy  place. 

I’ll  seek  Thy  house  and  pay 
My  vows  before  Thy  face; 

The  vows  that  I  unto  Thee  made, 
When  trouble  sore  was  on  me  laid. 


110 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


My  offerings  I'll  bring, 

And  sacrifice  to  Thee 
The  choicest  and  the  best, 

That  have  belonged  to  me; 

Upon  Thine  altar  I  will  lay 
My  choicest  gifts  from  day  to  day. 

All  ye  that  fear  the  Lord, 

Draw  near,  and  I’ll  declare 
That  God  gave  unto  me 

Rich  portions  for  my  share: 

My  mouth  extolled  His  holy  name, 
My  tongue  His  praises  did  proclaim. 

If  I  iniquity 

Regard  within  my  heart, 

The  Lord  will  not  me  hear, 

He  will  from  me  depart: 

O  cleanse  my  heart  of  ev’ry  sin, 
Cleanse  it  for  Thee  to  enter  in. 

But  verily  the  Lord 

Hath  heard  me  worship  there, 

His  ear  hath  caught  my  words, 

And  listened  to  my  prayer: 

Blest  be  the  Lord  who  heard  my  plea, 
Nor  mercy  did  withhold  from  me. 


PSALM  67 

God  be  merciful  to  us, 

Bless  us  with  Thy  grace  divine, 
And  in  tender  mercy  thus 

Cause  Thy  face  on  us  to  shine. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


1 1 1 


Lord,  now  let  Thy  way  be  known; 

Unto  Thee  the  whole  earth  call; 

Let  the  living  seed  be  sown, 

Saving  grace  mong  nations  all. 

Let  the  people  praise  Thee,  Lord; 

Yea,  let  all  the  people  praise; 

Let  the  tribes  with  one  accord, 

And  the  nations,  anthems  raise; 

For  Thou  shalt  most  righteously 
Judge  the  people  of  the  land; 

And  the  nations  called  by  Thee, 

Shall  be  governed  by  Thy  hand. 

Let  the  people  praise  Thee,  God; 

Let  them  laud  Thy  holy  name; 
Then  the  earth,  with  upturned  sod, 
Shall  with  increase  spread  Thy  fame; 
God  will  all  our  efforts  bless, 

And  He  will  to  us  draw  near; 

He  will  rule  in  righteousness; 

All  the  earth  His  name  shall  fear. 


PSALM  68 

Let  God  arise,  and  let  His  foes 
Be  scattered  far  and  wide ; 

Let  them  that  hate  Him  also  flee, 

And  in  confusion  hide. 

As  smoke  is  blown  before  the  wind, 
So  drive  them  with  Thy  rod; 

As  melts  the  wax,  so  may  they  fall 
Before  Thy  face,  O  God. 


112 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


But  let  the  righteous  still  be  glad, 

And  in  the  Lord  rejoice; 

Yea,  let  them  all,  in  thankfulness, 

Sing  with  united  voice. 

Sing  unto  God!  sing  praises  now 
Unto  the  Lord  Most  High; 

Sing  unto  Him  who  rides  above 
The  overhanging  sky. 

A  Father  of  the  fatherless, 

In  pity  such  is  His; 

A  Judge,  to  plead  the  widow’s  cause, 

The  Lord  Jehovah  is. 

The  solitary  He  doth  set 
In  families  to  dwell; 

He  bringeth  out  the  captive  soul, 

The  sin-sick  soul  makes  well. 

But  the  rebellious  starve  within 
A  dry  and  parched  land; 

No  hidden  manna  gather  they 
From  off  the  burning  sand. 

O  God,  when  Thou  didst  go  before 
Thy  people  day  and  night; 

When  Thou  didst  through  the  wilderness, 
Lead  them  by  cloud  and  light. 

Then  shook  the  earth,  the  heavens  dropped, 
Before  God’s  awful  face; 

E’en  Sinai,  when  the  Lord  appeared, 

Did  tremble  to  its  base. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


113 


Refreshing  rains  of  grace  didst  Thou 
Upon  the  weary  pour; 

And  congregations  thrived  within 
The  sanctuary  door. 

Thou  hast  prepared,  Jehovah  God, 

Thy  blessing  for  the  poor; 

And  unto  all  didst  give  Thy  word, 

Thy  word,  divine  and  pure. 

The  kings  of  armies  fast  did  flee, 
Unaided  in  their  toil; 

But  she  who  tarried  safe  at  home, 
Divided  there  the  spoil. 

Though  ye  have  toiled  among  the  pots, 
Unsullied  in  my  sight 

Ye  shall  appear,  fair,  like  the  dove, 

With  wings  of  silvered  light. 

When  the  Almighty  scattered  kings, 

Ye  were  as  white  as  snow; 

Light  streams  about  the  published  word, 
Where’er  its  tidings  go. 

The  hill  of  God  is  as  the  hill 
Of  Bashan,  seen  afar; 

Yea,  ’tis  the  hill  where  God  doth  dwell, 
And  where  His  treasures  are. 

Why  leap  for  joy,  ye  lofty  hills, 

And  God’s  achievements  tell? 

This  is  the  place  of  His  desire, 

Here  will  He  ever  dwell. 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


1  14 


A  thousand,  thousand  times  are  found 
God’s  chariots  of  grace; 

The  angels  of  the  Lord  which  speed 
From  out  the  holy  place. 

Thou  hast  ascended  up  on  high, 
Captivity  hath  bound; 

Thou  hast  accepted  gifts  from  men, 

A  ransom  from  them  found. 

E’en  the  rebellious,  He  hath  led 
In  ways  of  truth  and  peace; 

Blest  be  the  Lord,  who  daily  brings 
His  blessings  to  increase. 

The  Lord  of  our  salvation  is 
The  God  who  gave  us  breath; 

And  unto  Him,  our  God,  belongs 
The  issues  of  our  death. 

But  God  shall  wound  the  head  of  all 
His  enemies  most  dread; 

And  those  who  still  go  on  in  sin, 

To  sorrow  shall  be  led. 

The  Lord  said :  I  will  bring  again 
From  Bashan  all  mine  own; 

And  from  the  waters  I  will  bring 
All  who  my  name  have  known. 

That  yet  thy  foot  may  be  dipped  in 
The  blood  of  all  thy  foes; 

Yea,  even  more,  thy  dogs  may  lap 
The  same  wher’er  it  flows. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


115 


Thy  goings  they  have  seen,  O  God, 

Within  Thy  house,  my  King; 

The  people  there  on  timbrels  play, 

And  there  before  Thee  sing. 

Within  the  congregation  bless 
The  Lord,  and  Him  adore; 

From  Jacob’s  fountain  blessings  do 
Without  cessation  pour. 

There  Benjamin  and  Judah  shall 
Their  peaceful  council  hold; 

The  house  of  Zebulun  with  love 
Shall  Naphtali  enfold. 

Thy  strength  thy  God  commanded  hath; 

O  strengthen,  then,  we  pray, 

That  which  Thy  grace  hath  wrought  for  us, 
In  Thine  appointed  way. 

Because  Thy  temple,  Lord,  doth  stand 
Within  Jerusalem, 

Shall  kings  bring  presents  unto  Thee 
Of  pearl  and  costly  gem. 

The  company  of  spearmen,  Lord, 

Rebuke,  and  scatter  far; 

Yea,  scatter  Thou  the  people  that 
Delight  in  blood  and  war. 

From  Egypt,  princes  yet  shall  come, 

And  rule  with  iron  rod; 

And  Ethiopia  shall  soon 

Stretch  out  her  hands  to  God. 


116 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Sing  unto  God!  ye  realms  of  earth; 

Sing  praises  to  the  Lord; 

To  Him  who  rides  above  the  clouds, 
Sing  ye  with  one  accord. 

Unto  our  God  ascribe  ye  strength ; 

His  power  divine  is  thrown 
O’er  Jacob,  and  His  strength  is  in 
The  clouds  of  darkness  shown. 

O  God,  how  terrible  art  Thou, 
Outside  Thy  holy  place! 

But  close  within  Thy  sacred  house, 
We  view  with  joy  Thy  face. 

The  God  of  Israel  is  He 

That  giveth  strength  and  power 
Unto  His  people.  Praise  His  name, 
And  laud  Him  ev’ry  hour. 

PSALM  69 

Save  me,  O  Thou  great  Jehovah! 

For  the  waters  reach  my  soul; 

Lo!  I  sink  in  strange  disaster, 

While  the  floods  about  me  roll. 

Of  my  crying  I  am  weary, 

E’en  my  throat  is  parched  and  dry; 
Fail  mine  eyes  while  I  am  waiting 
For  an  answer  from  on  high. 

More  are  they  that  hate  me  wrongly 
Than  the  hairs  upon  my  head; 
Those  that  would  destroy  unjustly 
Mighty  are;  my  constant  dread. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


117 


In  pursuit  of  peace  restored  I 
That  which  I  took  not  away: 

Lord,  Thou  knowest  all  my  folly, 

All  I*ve  done  by  night  and  day. 

Let  not  them  that  on  Thee  waited, 

For  my  sake  be  brought  to  shame; 

Let  not  those  in  darkness  wander, 

Who  have  sought  Thy  gracious  name. 

For  Thy  sake  IVe  borne  reproaches, 
Shame  hath  covered  all  my  face; 

Lo!  I  have  become  a  stranger 
To  my  brethren  and  my  race. 

For  Thy  house  1  long  was  zealous, 

For  its  honor  long  I  wept; 

Chastened  I  my  soul  with  fasting, 
Sackcloth  for  my  garment  kept; 

I  became  a  proverb  to  them; 

They  that  sit  within  the  gate 

Speak  against  me  in  derision, 

And  my  sins  and  falls  relate. 

Yet  for  me  my  prayer  unto  Thee 
Is  in  an  accepted  time; 

In  Thy  tender  mercy  hear  me, 

Save  me  by  Thy  grace  sublime. 

From  all  sin  my  soul  deliver, 

It  from  all  pollution  keep; 

Free  me,  Lord,  from  them  that  hate  me, 
Lift  me  from  these  waters  deep. 

Lord,  let  not  the  waves  o’er-flow  me, 

Nor  engulf  me  let  the  sea; 

Neither  let  the  pit  eternal 

Close  her  hungry  mouth  on  me. 


118 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Hear  me,  O  Thou  great  Jehovah, 

In  Thy  lovingkindness  now; 

Turn  to  me  in  tender  mercy, 

While  I  at  Thine  altar  bow. 

Hide  not  from  Thy  waiting  servant 
Thy  dear  face  of  peace  and  love, 

For  I  now  am  in  deep  trouble; 

Hear  me  in  Thy  courts  above. 

Draw  unto  my  soul  yet  nearer, 

And  redeem  it  with  Thy  blood; 

Help  me,  Lord,  for  foes  deriding, 

Now  surround  me  as  a  flood. 

My  reproach  and  my  dishonor, 

Lord  Jehovah,  Thou  hast  known; 

When  I  looked  for  some  to  pity, 

I  was  left  to  weep  alone; 

When  I,  craving  in  my  hunger, 

Asked  for  meat,  they  gave  me  gall; 

And  with  bitter  drink  they  answered 
My  despairing,  thirsting  call. 

Let  their  table  now  before  them, 

As  a  curse,  become  a  snare; 

Let  their  guilty  eyes  be  darkened, 

Let  them  not  of  harm  beware; 

On  them  pour  Thine  indignation, 

Let  Thine  anger  ’gainst  them  swell; 

Empty  be  their  habitation, 

Nor  in  tents  let  any  dwell. 

Him  whom  Thou  hast  sorely  smitten, 
They  revile  and  persecute; 

And  of  those  whom  Thou  hast  wounded, 
They  are  to  their  grief  not  mute. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


119 


To  their  evil  add  yet  evil, 

Let  them  not  behold  Thy  face ; 

From  the  annals  of  the  living, 

Blot  this  sin-accursed  race. 

I  am  poor;  let  Thy  salvation 
Set  me  up,  O  Lord,  on  high; 

I  will  praise  God’s  name  for  ever, 
Him  with  praise  I’ll  magnify. 

This  shall  please  the  Lord  Jehovah, 
Better  than  a  bullock  slain: 

Those  that  seek  the  Lord  believing, 
This  shall  see  and  live  again. 

For  His  poor  He  ever  heareth, 

Nor  His  lowly  will  despise; 

Let  the  earth  and  heavens  praise  Him, 
And  all  things  beneath  the  skies. 
For  the  Lord  will  rescue  Zion; 

There  in  safety  all  may  dwell; 

It  His  children  shall  inherit, 

They  who  love  and  serve  Him  well. 

PSALM  70 

Haste  O  Lord,  me  to  deliver; 

Haste,  my  weary  soul  to  save; 

Thou  of  blessings  art  the  giver, 

Let  not  sin  my  soul  enslave: 

Help  me!  help  me! 

E’er  I  sink  into  the  grave. 

Let  my  foes  be  all  ashamed, 

That  would  seek  my  soul  to  stain; 
Let  them  never  more  be  named, 

Let  their  efforts  be  in  vain, 

Nor  to  hurt  me, 

Let  them  now  an  entrance  gain. 


120 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Backward  let  them  all  be  turned 
That  cry  out:  Aha!  aha! 

’Tis  the  just  reward  they  earned, 

When  my  misery  they  saw; 

Let  them  perish 

In  the  net  their  hands  would  draw. 

But  let  all  rejoice  with  singing, 

And  be  always  glad  in  Thee, 

Who  to  others  now  are  bringing 
Thy  salvation,  full  and  free: 

Hallelujah ! 

May  we  all  this  blessing  see.. 

But,  O  Lord,  I’m  poor  and  needy, 
Hasten  now  to  me  I  pray; 

Let  Thy  help  to  me  be  speedy, 

Be  to  me  my  strength  and  stay; 

Save  me!  save  me! 

All  my  hope  on  Thee  I  lay. 

PSALM  7 1 

In  Thee,  O  Lord,  I  put  my  trust, 

Let  not  my  hope  be  brought  to  shame; 
Deliver  me,  Thou  God  most  just, 

O  save  me  by  Thy  holy  name. 

Incline  to  me  Thy  gracious  ear, 

And  save  me  by  Thy  mighty  arm ; 

Be  Thou  my  Rock  when  danger’s  near, 
Where  I  may  hide  from  ev’ry  harm. 

From  out  the  hand  of  wicked  men, 
Deliver  me,  o  righteous  God! 

Thou  art  my  help  and  fortress  when 
Mine  enemies  apply  the  rod. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


121 


Yea,  from  my  youth  Thou  art  my  trust; 

My  strength  has  been  upheld  by  Thee; 

My  warmest  praise  forever  must 
Of  Thy  great  lovingkindness  be. 

To  many  I’m  a  wonder  great, 

But  Thou  my  refuge  art  and  stay; 

My  tongue  Thy  praises  shall  relate, 

And  sing  Thine  honor  all  the  day. 

Cast  me  not  off  in  my  old  age; 

Forsake  me  not  when  strength  grows  weak, 
For  enemies  against  me  rage, 

Together  they  against  me  speak. 

God  hath  forsaken  him,  they  cry; 

Him  persecute  and  quickly  take ; 

On  none  for  help  can  he  rely; 

No  friends  to  succor  him  await. 

O  God!  be  not  Thou  far  from  me; 

Heed  Thou  my  crying;  help,  make  haste! 
Let  them  confounded  ever  be 

Who  seek  my  soul  to  lay  it  waste. 

But  I  in  Thee  will  ever  hope; 

Thee  will  I  praise  yet  more  and  more; 

Yea,  though  with  halting  steps  I  grope, 

My  heart  doth  praise  Thee  and  adore. 

My  mouth  Thy  righteousness  shall  tell, 

And  Thy  salvation,  all  the  day; 

The  number  of  Thy  blessings  swell 
As  I  proceed  along  the  way. 


122 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Now  in  the  strength  of  God  I’ll  go; 

Thy  righteousness,  Thine,  only  Thine, 

I  in  my  daily  walk  will  know ; 

My  lips  shall  tell  Thy  works  divine. 

And  now,  O  Lord,  when  whitened  hair 
Adorns  my  brow,  forsake  me  not, 

Till  I  Thy  power  shall  declare 

To  those  who  have  not  for  Thee  sought. 

Thy  righteousness  is  high,  O  Lord, 

Thou  who  hast  wondrous  marvels  done : 
Who,  who  can  now  with  Thee  accord, 

Thou  Lord  Jehovah,  Three  in  One. 

Thou,  who  hast  troubles,  great  and  sore, 
Shown  unto  me  in  seasons  past, 

Will  quicken  me,  and  life  restore, 

And  raise  me  from  the  earth  at  last. 

My  greatness  Thou’lt  increase  yet  more, 

And  comfort  me  on  ev’ry  side: 

With  harp,  O  Lord,  I’ll  Thee  adore; 

Thy  truth  my  tongue  shall  publish  wide. 

My  lips  shall  laud  Thee  and  rejoice, 

My  soul  shall  bless  Thee  in  her  song; 

Yea,  of  Thy  righteousness  my  voice 
Shall  utter  praises  all  day  long. 

For  Thou  my  foes  confounded  have, 

Thou  hast  them  brought  into  deep  shame, 
E’en  those  who  didst  against  me  rave, 

And  didst  blaspheme  Thy  holy  name. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


123 


PSALM  72 

Give  to  the  king  Thy  judgments,  Lord, 
Thy  truth  give  to  his  son ; 

Thy  people  he  shall  rightly  judge, 

The  rich  and  poor  as  one. 

The  mountains  to  the  people  shall 
Bring  truth,  and  joy,  and  peace; 

The  little  hills,  by  righteousness, 

Shall  prosper  and  increase. 

The  poor  of  ev’ry  age  he’ll  judge; 

The  needy  We  will  save; 

Yea,  he  will  soon  in  pieces  brake 
The  people  who  enslave. 

Thee  shall  they  fear  as  long  a s  doth 
The  sun  and  moon  endure; 

Throughout  all  generations  shall 
Thy  sov’reignty  be  sure. 

Yea,  he  shall  come  like  rain  upon 
The  grass,  and  it  revive; 

As  showers  wet  the  parched  earth, 

So  will  he  make  alive. 

The  righteous  in  his  days  shall  reign, 

And  flourish,  and  increase, — 

Long  as  endures  the  moon,  shall  last 
His  plentitude  of  peace. 

Dominion,  also,  he  shall  have 
From  sea  to  distant  sea; 

Yea,  from  the  utmost  ends  of  earth 
Shall  his  dominion  be. 


124 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


All  they  that  in  the  wilderness 
Do  dwell,  and  humbly  trust, 

Bow  down  before  him;  while  his  foes, 
Defeated,  lick  the  dust. 

The  kings  of  all  the  distant  isles, 
Shall  to  him  presents  bring; 

Yea,  all  shall  serve  him  and  fall  down, 
The  people  and  their  king. 

For  he’ll  deliver  by  his  grace 
The  needy  when  he  cries; 

The  poor,  and  those  who  seek  his  aid, 
His  bounty  ne’er  denies. 

The  poor  and  needy  he  will  spare, 
Their  dying  souls  he’ll  save, 

And  precious  in  his  sight  shall  be 
Their  dust  within  the  grave. 

And  he  shall  live,  and  unto  him 
Shall  Sheba’s  gold  be  given; 

Prayer  also  shall  be  made  for  him 
Among  the  hosts  of  Heaven. 

A  handful  shall  there  be  of  corn 
The  mountain’s  top  upon; 

The  fruit  thereof,  in  after  days, 

Shall  shake  like  Lebanon. 

His  name  for  ever  shall  endure, 

Long  as  shall  shine  the  sun ; 

All  men  shall  favored  be  in  him, 

And  all  that  he  hath  done. 


OF  DAVID  THE  KING 


125 


Blest  be  the  everlasting  God, 

The  God  of  Israel, 

Who  only  doeth  wondrous  things, 

Who  doeth  all  things  well. 

And  blessed  be  His  holy  name 
In  all  the  earth,  and  then 

Let  earth  and  Heaven  shout  aloud 
In  one  glad  shout:  Amen. 

PSALM  73 

The  Lord  is  good  to  Israel, 

To  such  as  are  of  a  clean  heart; 

But  as  for  me,  alas!  my  feet 

Did  almost  from  Thy  ways  depart. 

For  I  was  envious  of  the  proud, 

When  I  beheld  their  prosp’rous  ways ; 

No  bonds,  I  said,  confine  their  death, 

Their  strength  is  firm  through  all  their  days. 

They  have  not  trouble  for  their  guest, 

Nor  are  they  plagued  as  are  the  saints; 

Pride,  as  a  chain,  encircles  them, 

No  cause  have  they  for  sore  complaints. 

Their  eyes  with  fatness  standeth  out, 

They’ve  more  of  earth  than  heart  could  crave ; 

Corrupt  are  they,  and  with  their  tongue 
They  do  ’gainst  earth  and  Heaven  rave. 

Therefore  His  people  here  return; 

From  cups  o’er-flowing  they  shall  drink: 

The  wicked  say:  How  doth  God  know? 

Does  God  upon  His  people  think? 


126 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


These  are  the  people  whom  we  see 
To  prosper  in  the  world  today; 

In  worldly  riches  they  increase, 

But  wealth,  ill  gotten,  will  not  stay. 

I’ve  cleansed  my  heart’s  iniquity, 

And  washed  my  hands,  alas!  in  vain, 

For  all  day  long  by  sin  I’m  plagued — 

How  oft  it  doth  within  me  reign! 

If.  in  my  weakness,  I  would  say, 

I  will  speak  thus,  and  thus  will  do ; 

It  would  Thy  children  then  offend, 

Their  welfare  it  would  bar  anew. 

When  this  1  learned,  I  musing,  thought 
It  was  too  painful  for  my  mind, 

Until  I  did  attend  Thy  courts, 

And  sought  therein  Thy  truths  to  find. 

In  slipp’ry  places  Thou  didst  set 

The  wicked,  and  didst  cast  them  down; 

Yea,  in  a  moment  they  are  brought 
To  melt  away  beneath  Thy  frown. 

As  in  a  dream  when  one  awakes, 

So,  Lord,  when  Thou  awakest  them, 

Their  boasted  image  Thou’lt  despise, 

And  all  their  works  of  pride  condemn. 

Thus  was  my  heart  so  sorely  grieved, 

Thus  was  I  pricked  within  my  reins; 

I  foolish  was,  and  ignorant, 

E’en  like  a  beast  that  roams  the  plains. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


127 


Yet,  Lord,  I  ever  am  with  Thee; 

Thou  hast  me  held  by  my  right  hand; 
Thou  shalt  me  with  Thy  counsel  guide, 

And  lead  me  to  the  heavenly  land. 

Whom,  whom  have  I  in  Heaven  but  Thee? 

There’s  none  on  earth  I  so  desire; 

My  heart,  enraptured  with  Thy  love, 

Would  cast  her  idols  in  the  fire. 

My  flesh  and  spirit  sink  and  fall, 

But  God’s  the  strength  of  my  weak  heart; 
For  ever  He  my  portion  is, 

Nor  shall  1  from  His  love  depart. 

For  lo!  all  they  who  wander  far 

From  Thee  shall  perish  by  the  way; 

Yea,  those  who  wandered  from  Thy  love, 
Thou  didst  in  righteous  anger  slay. 

But  it  is  good  for  me  to  draw 

Near  to  my  God,  His  love  to  share; 

In  Him  alone  I’ve  put  my  trust, 

His  wondrous  works  I  will  declare. 

PSALM  74 

Why  hast  Thou  cast  us  off 
Forever,  O  my  God? 

Why  doth  Thine  anger  burn? 

Why  chasten  with  Thy  rod? 

Remember  now  Thine  own, 

Purchased  by  Thee  of  old; 

Thine  own  inheritance; 

Oh!  let  it  not  be  sold. 


128 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


This  mount,  where  Thou  hast  dwelt, 
Dwell,  Lord,  forever  there; 

Turn  from  it  all  who  sin; 

Make  it  Thy  temple  fair. 

E’en  in  Thy  holy  place, 

Thine  enemies  do  roar; 

They  flaunt  their  colors  high, 

Aloft  their  ensigns  soar. 

Men  were,  in  olden  times, 

Honored  who  worked  for  Thee; 
Yea,  honored  were  the  men 
That  felled  the  mighty  tree, 

And  fashioned  it  to  put 
Within  Thy  temple  fair; 

But  now,  with  ruthless  hate, 

They  lay  that  temple  bare. 

Therein  they  fire  cast, 

And  they  delight  have  found, 

In  bringing  low  Thy  house, 

Yea,  even  to  the  ground. 

They  said  within  their  hearts: 

Let  us  them  all  destroy. 

Thy  synagogues  they’ve  burned, 

And  found  in  that  a  joy. 

We  see  not,  Lord,  our  signs; 

No  prophet  have  we  now, 

Nor  any  one  who  knows 

Where  we  may  dwell,  or  how. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


129 


How  long,  O  Lord,  how  long, 
Shall  foes  our  land  invade? 

How  long  Thy  name  blaspheme? 
How  long  Thy  temple  raid? 

Oh!  why  withdraweth  Thou 

Thy  saving,  strong  right  hand? 

Lord,  bring  it  forth  to  help 
Thy  desolated  land. 

For  Thou  alone  art  King! 

Thou  ever  wast  of  old; 

The  destinies  of  all, 

Jehovah’s  hand  doth  hold. 

Thou  didst  divide  the  sea 

By  Thine  own  power  divine; 

The  fountain  and  the  flood 
Obeyed  each  word  of  Thine. 

Thine  is  the  sun-lit  day, 

And  Thine  the  moon-  lit  night ; 

Thou  hast  them  both  prepared, 

To  give  us  needed  light. 

Yea,  all  the  earth  is  Thine, 

And  all  that  therein  dwell; 

The  seasons  Thou  hast  made, 

And  they,  O  Lord,  are  well. 

Remember  that  Thy  foes 

Have  Thee  oft-times  reproached; 

They  have  blasphemed  Thy  name, 
And  on  Thy  land  encroached. 


130 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Deliver  not  to  them 

Thy  saints  that  trust  in  Thee; 

Forget  not,  Lord,  Thy  poor, 

But  their  swift  helper  be. 

Thy  promises  of  old, 

Remember,  Lord,  I  pray; 

For  places  dark  hold  men 
Who  would  the  godly  slay. 

Oh!  let  not  the  oppressed, 

Return  to  be  ashamed, 

But  may  Thy  praises  be 

By  needy  ones  proclaimed. 

Arise!  O  Lord,  and  plead 

Thine  own  and  righteous  cause, 

Amid  the  voice  of  those 
That  daily  break  Thy  laws. 

Forget  not  Thou  the  voice 
Of  those  who  Thee  despise; 

Their  wrath  against  Thee  doth 
Increasingly  arise. 

PSALM  75 

To  Thee,  O  Lord,  do  we  give  thanks, 
F or  we  Thy  mercies  share ; 

And  that  Thy  holy  name  is  great, 
Thy  wondrous  works  declare. 

When  I  Thy  people  shall  receive, 

I  will  right  judgment  give; 

The  earth  and  all  therein  dissolve; 

In  Thee  alone  we  live. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


131 


I  said  unto  the  foolish  ones: 

Deal  not  thus  foolishly; 

And  to  the  wicked:  let  not  now 
Your  horn  exalted  be. 

Oh!  lift  not  up  your  horn  on  high, 
Nor  in  rebellion  speak, 

For  your  promotion  cometh  not 
From  places  that  you  seek. 

God  is  the  Judge  of  all  the  earth, 
And  one  He  putteth  down ; 

Another  one  He  setteth  up 
To  wear  the  ruler’s  crown. 

There  is  a  cup  in  God’s  right  hand; 

The  wine  therein  is  red; 

The  dregs  thereof  the  wicked  drink, 
Till  they  in  sin  are  dead. 

But  I’ll  declare  for  evermore 
Jehovah’s  wondrous  name; 

To  Jacob’s  God  I  will  sing  praise, 
And  all  His  works  proclaim. 

The  power  of  the  wicked,  1 
Will  hinder  and  cast  down; 

The  righteous  shall  in  power  grow, 
God  will  their  efforts  crown. 

PSALM  76 

In  Judah  God  is  known; 

In  Israel  He  reigns; 

In  Zion  He  doth  have  His  throne; 

In  Salem,  worship  gains. 


132 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


There  He  the  arrows  brake, 

The  sword,  the  shield,  the  bow; 

Thou  art  more  glorious  and  make, 
More  praise  than  prey  brought  low. 

There  the  most  brave  are  slain; 

There  they  in  heaps  do  sleep; 

None  of  the  mighty  there  can  rise 
From  out  that  slumber  deep. 

At  Thy  rebuke,  O  Lord, 

Both  horse  and  rider  fall; 

They  there  obey  Thy  mighty  word, 
And  hear  Thy  final  call. 

Thou,  Lord,  art  to  be  praised; 

Who  in  Thy  sight  may  stand, 

When  Thy  avenging  hand  is  raised, 
To  desolate  the  land? 

From  Heaven  Thou  didst  cause 
Right  judgment  to  be  heard; 

Because  that  men  defied  Thy  laws, 
Nor  did  esteem  Thy  word. 

The  earth  feared  and  was  still, 

When  God  in  judgment  rose, 

To  save  the  meek,  and  then  fulfill 
His  threats  against  their  foes. 

Surely  the  wrath  of  man 
Shall  to  Thee  praises  gain; 

And  the  remainder  Thou  wilt  span, 
And  there  its  strength  restrain. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


133 


Vow,  ye,  unto  the  Lord; 

To  God  your  tributes  pay; 

Let  all  bring  gifts  with  one  accord, 
On  that  auspicious  day. 


God  shall  in  wrath  cut  off 
The  princes  of  the  earth; 

He  angry  is  at  those  who  scoff, 
And  at  His  laws  make  mirth. 

PSALM  77 

Unto  the  Lord  I  cried 
With  trembling  speech, 

Nor  was  my  prayer  denied, 

His  ear  to  reach : 

When  I  to  grief  was  brought, 
And  there  Jehovah  sought, 

The  Lord  forsook  me  not, — 
Thus  doth  He  teach. 


My  sore  ran  in  the  night, 
And  never  ceased; 

Grief  did  my  comfort  blight, 
Sorrows  increased; 

Then  thought  I  on  the  Lord, 
I  trembled  at  His  word: 
Relief  He  did  afford, 

And  me  released. 


Wakeful  are  kept  mine  eyes, 
Though  sleep  I  seek; 
Troubles  so  thickly  rise 
I  cannot  speak : 


134 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


I  have,  amidst  my  tears, 

Thought  on  departed  years; 

Yea,  I  recall  my  fears 
When  I  was  weak. 

But  I  recalled  to  mind 
Songs  in  the  night, 

When  God,  so  wondrous  kind, 
Brought  me  delight; 

And  deep  within  my  heart, 
Thoughts — from  the  world  apart — 
Caused  suddenly  to  start 
Communings  right. 

Then  did  I  reason  thus: 

Will  God  forsake? 

Nor  longer  favor  us 
For  His  name’s  sake? 

Is  His  grace  from  us  gone? 

Will  He  leave  us  alone? 

Nor  for  our  sins  atone? 

Nor  our  guilt  take? 

*Twas  mine  infirmity 
Thus  to  forget 
What  God  hath  done  for  me, 

And  doeth  yet: 

But  now  I  will  recall, 

How  God  didst  save  us  all, 

When  we  did  helpless  fall, — 

Thus  I’ll  reflect. 

And  I  will  think  upon 
God’s  works  so  great; 

And  unto  ev’ry  one 
I’ll  them  relate. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


135 


Thy  way,  O  God,  is  in 
The  house  Thy  blood  didst  win — 
Cleansed  there  from  doubt  and  sin. 
Thee  we  await. 

Thou  doest  wonders  still, 

Lord  God  of  truth; 

Thou  doest  all  Thy  will 
To  man  and  youth. 

Thou  hast  with  Thine  own  arm, 
Saved  Thine,  when  in  alarm, 

From  all  impending  harm, 

And  killing  drouth. 

The  waters  saw  Thee,  Lord, 

And  were  afraid; 

The  depths  at  Thy  great  word, 

Hast  Thee  obeyed: 

From  clouds  descended  rain; 

Trees,  rocks,  were  rent  in  twain; 
Trembled  the  earth  again, 

Nor  would  be  stayed. 

Thy  way  is  in  the  sea; 

It  Thou  dost  own; 

It  may  in  secret  be, 

And  all  unknown. 

Thou  didst  Thy  people  lead, 

And  them  with  manna  feed, — 
E’en  as  Thou  hadst  decreed 
In  ages  flown. 

PSALM  78 

Give  heed,  O  people,  to  my  law; 

Unto  my  voice  your  ears  incline; 
In  parables  I  will  discourse, 

And  utter  sayings  dark,  divine. 


136 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


That  which  we  long  have  heard  and  known, 
That  which  our  fathers  have  us  told, 

We  will  not  from  the  children  hide, 

Nor  from  their  knowledge  it  with-hold. 

To  generations  yet  unborn, 

We  will  the  praises  of  the  Lord 

Set  forth;  and  all  His  wondrous  works 
To  children’s  children  will  record. 

For  lo!  established  Fie  a  law 
In  Jacob  and  in  Israel, 

That  fathers  to  their  children  should 
The  statutes  of  Jehovah  tell. 

That  they  might  set  their  hopes  on  God, 
And  ne’er  forget  His  works  of  old; 

All  His  commandments  gladly  keep, 

And  in  their  hearts  His  precepts  hold. 

Not  as  their  fathers  might  they  be — 

A  stubborn  and  rebellious  race — 

A  race  whose  heart,  set  not  aright, 

Turned  from  the  ways  of  truth  and  grace. 

Yea,  Ephraim’s  children,  armed  with  bows, 
Turned  back  in  battle  from  the  foe; 

They  did  not  keep  the  law  of  God, 

And  in  His  way  refused  to  go. 

His  works  of  love  they  soon  forgot — 

The  wonders  He  had  to  them  shown. 

The  marvelous  deeds  their  fathers  saw 
In  Egypt  and  the  field  of  Zoan. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


137 


The  sea  divided  He  for  them, 

And  safely  led  them  through  the  deep; 

He  caused  the  surging  waters  thus 
To  stand  a  high,  unyielding  heap. 

By  day  He  led  them  by  a  cloud, 

And  all  the  night  with  light  of  fire: 

He  clave  the  rock,  and  lo!  there  flowed 
A  stream  to  quench  each  deep  desire. 

And  yet,  forgetful  of  His  love, 

They  sinned  against  the  Lord  Most  High, 

And  in  their  hearts  they  tempted  Him; 

For  fleshly  lusts  began  to  sigh. 

Yea,  they  against  the  Lord  did  speak, 

And  in  derision  proudly  said: 

Can  God  a  banquet  furnish  here? 

And  in  the  wilds  a  table  spread  ? 

Behold  He  smote  the  rock  afore, 

And  gushing  streams  o’er-flowed,  they  cried, 

Can  He  give  living  bread  as  well, 

And  for  His  people  flesh  provide? 

Jehovah  heard  those  words  of  scorn, 

And  lo!  His  awful  anger  burned; 

Because  in  Him  they  trusted  not 
Nor  for  salvation  to  Him  turned. 

Although  the  God,  who  rules  o’er  all, 

The  doors  above  had  opened  wide, 

And  manna  gave  for  them  to  eat, 

For  them  did  angel’s  food  provide. 


138 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


He  then  an  east  wind  caused  to  blow; 

The  south  wind  by  His  power  fanned, 
And  feathered  fowls  around  them  fell, 
Thick  as  the  sea’s  unnumbered  sand. 


And  in  their  camp,  to  their  delight, 

Did  flesh  in  an  abundance  fall; 

He  gave  to  them  their  own  desire, 

He  gave  according  to  their  call. 

But  while  the  meat  was  in  their  mouths, 
His  wrath  and  curse  upon  them  came; 

Disease  and  death  the  strongest  slew, 

And  Israel  was  brought  to  shame. 

Yet  for  all  this,  they  still  did  sin, 

Nor  in  His  wondrous  works  believed; 

In  vanity  their  days  were  spent; 

They  trouble  all  their  days  received. 

But  when  He  slew  them,  Him  they  sought, 
And  kissed  His  kind,  reproving  rod; 

Yea,  they  returned,  and  humbled  thus, 
Inquired  early  after  God. 

They  called  to  mind,  with  softened  heart, 
That  God  their  Fortress  was,  and  Rock; 

But  still,  they  flattered  with  their  mouth, 
And  with  their  tongue  His  love  did  mock. 

Alas!  their  hearts  were  wrong  with  God, 
Nor  were  they  steadfast  in  their  love; 

Yet,  He,  O  wondrous  grace  divine! 
Viewed  them  in  pity  from  above. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


139 


Yea,  He  His  anger  turned  away, 

Nor  let  His  wrath  against  them  rise, 

For  He  remembered  that  they  were 
But  flesh — a  breath  that  quickly  dies. 

They  in  the  desert  grieved  His  love, 

And  into  sore  backsliding  fell; 

They  tempted  God,  and  limited 
The  Holy  One  of  Israel. 

His  guiding  hand  they  soon  forgot; 

Nor  did  they  in  remembrance  hold, 

The  day  when  He  delivered  them 
From  out  the  clutch  of  captors  bold. 

The  signs  and  wonders  He  had  wrought 
In  Egypt  by  His  servant’s  hand; 

Where  rivers  were  turned  into  blood, 

And  deep  distress  was  on  the  land. 

The  elements  His  voice  obeyed, 

And  rained  down  thunderbolts  and  hail, 

Till  fear  and  trembling  seized  the  land, 

And  hearts  of  men  began  to  fail. 

He  sent  His  angel  forth  and  smote 
The  first-born  son  of  high  and  low: 

From  serf  to  king  a  cry  went  up, 

United  in  its  tone  of  woe. 

But  for  His  own,  He  made  a  way 
By  which  they  all  could  safely  walk; 

In  all  their  ways  He  was  their  guide; 

He  led  them  forth  a  ransomed  flock. 


140 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


The  waters  parted  He,  and  lo! 

They  crossed  the  sea  on  solid  ground ; 

He  spake;  and  the  Egyptians  were 
Beneath  the  surging  billows  drowned. 

A  sanctuary  He  prepared; 

A  holy,  consecrated  place, 

Where  smoked  the  incense  on  the  fire, 

As  emblems  of  His  saving  grace. 

He  cast  the  heathen  out,  and  made 

A  wealthy  place  where  they  might  dwell, 
E'en  His  own  flock,  beloved  and  blest, 

The  chosen  tribes  of  Israel. 

Still,  tempted  they  the  Lord  Most  High, 

And  from  His  law  and  counsel  strayed; 
They,  like  their  fathers,  turned  aside, 

To  worship  what  their  hands  had  made. 

When  God  saw  this,  His  anger  rose 
Against  this  highly  favored  tribe; 

Their  tabernacle  He  forsook, 

Nor  longer  would  with  them  reside. 

He  gave  His  people  to  the  sword; 

Yea,  with  His  own  His  wrath  waxed  hot; 
Their  young  men  in  the  fire  were  burned, 
Their  maids  were  not  in  marriage  sought. 

Their  priests,  alas!  fell  by  the  sword, 

Their  widows  made  no  sore  complaint. 
Then  rose  the  Lord,  as  out  of  sleep, 

And  spake  with  voice  no  longer  faint. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


141 


He  smote  the  now  retreating  foes, 

And  put  them  to  perpetual  shame; 

The  tents  of  Joseph  He  refused, 

Nor  to  the  tents  of  Ephraim  came. 

But  He  the  tribe  of  Judah  chose; 

The  fair  Mount  Zion  of  His  love 

Established  He,  firm  as  the  earth, 

A  house  watched  over  from  above. 

His  humble,  faithful  servant,  God 

Took  from  the  sheep-folds  in  his  youth, 

And  brought  him  forth,  the  tribes  to  feed, 
And  Israel  lead  in  ways  of  truth. 

So  he  them  fed  according  to 

The  wisdom  placed  within  his  heart; 

He  guided  them  with  skillful  hands, 

And  did  God’s  law  to  them  impart. 

PSALM  79 

Alas!  are  come  the  heathen 
To  Thine  inheritance; 

They  have  defiled  Thy  temple. 

And  on  Thy  saints  advance. 

Jerusalem,  Thy  city, 

They’ve  laid  in  broken  heaps; 

Thy  dead  saints  lie  unburied, 

Nor  one  above  them  weeps. 

We  have  to  those  around  us, 

Become  a  constant  scorn; 

Reproach,  alas!  attends  us 
At  evening  time  and  morn. 


142 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


How  long,  O  Lord,  in  anger 
Wilt  Thou  against  us  burn? 

To  us  in  our  affliction, 

Turn,  Lord,  in  mercy  turn. 

Upon  the  heathen  nations, 

Pour  out  Thy  wrath,  O  Lord; 

On  them  that  have  not  known  Thee, 
Draw  Thine  avenging  sword, 

For  they’ve  devoured  Jacob, 

Laid  waste  his  dwelling  place; 

And  all  Thy  people’s  honor 
Have  brought  into  disgrace. 

Remember  not  against  us 
Our  past  iniquity, 

But  let  Thy  tender  mercy 
Around  us  ever  be. 

O  God  of  our  salvation! 

Help  us,  and  glory  take; 

Us  from  all  sin  deliver, 

E’en  for  Thine  own  name’s  sake. 

Why  should  the  heathen,  mocking, 
Say:  Where  is  now  their  God? 

O  Lord,  make  known  Thy  power 
By  Thine  avenging  rod. 

Let  now  the  weary  sighing 
Of  those  in  bondage  kept, 

As  prayers  arise  before  Thee; 

Keep,  Thou,  the  tears  they’ve  wept. 

Reproach  the  heathen  nations, 

As  they’ve  reproached  Thee; 

Into  their  bosom  falling, 

Let  it  as  wormwood  be: 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


143 


So  we,  Thy  chosen  people, 

E’en  we,  in  joyful  lays, 

Will  give  Thee  thanks  for  ever, 

To  all  show  forth  Thy  praise. 

PSALM  80 

Give  ear,  Jehovah  Lord; 

Thou  that  dost  Joseph  guide; 

Shine  forth,  O  Lord,  who  doth  between 
The  cherubims  abide. 

Before  Thy  favored  tribes, 

Stir  up  Thy  strength,  O  Lord; 

Come  Thou  and  help  us  in  our  need; 
Thy  saving  grace  afford. 

Turn  us  again,  O  God, 

And  cause  Thy  face  to  shine; 

Then  shall  we  from  our  foes  be  saved, 
Succored  by  help  divine. 

O  Lord  of  Hosts,  how  long 
Wilt  Thou  in  anger  be, 

Against  the  prayer  Thy  people  raise, 
Jehovah  God,  to  Thee? 

Thou  feedest  them  with  bread 
Moistened  with  bitter  tears; 

And  tears  are  mingled  with  their  drink 
Throughout  the  passing  years. 

Thou  makest  us  a  strife 
Unto  our  neighbors  round; 

Among  our  enemies,  as  well, 

Derisive  words  resound. 


144 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Turn  us  again,  O  Lord, 

And  cause  Thy  face  to  shine; 

Turn  us  and  we  shall  then  be  saved, 
Saved  by  Thy  help  divine. 

Thou  hast  from  Egypt  brought 
A  vine  of  Thine  own  choice; 

Thou  hast  prepared  a  place  for  it, 

And  caused  it  to  rejoice. 

Thou  madest  it  to  take 

Deep  root,  and  fill  the  land; 

The  hills  are  covered  with  its  shade, 

Its  boughs  did  well  expand. 

Yea,  it  sent  out  its  boughs 
To  the  far  distant  sea; 

Its  branches  to  the  river  reached; 

Its  strength  was  like  a  tree. 

t 

Why  hast  Thou  broken  down 
Its  hedges,  so  that  they 
Do  waste  it  and  devour  it, 

That  pass  along  its  way? 

Return,  O  Lord  of  Hosts! 

Look  down  upon  this  vine; 

Look  down  from  Heaven,  and  behold; 
Descend  with  help  divine. 

The  vineyard  which  Thy  hand 
Hath  planted,  and  the  bough 
That  Thou  heist  for  Thyself  made  strong, 
Are  desolated  now. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


145 


Lord,  let  Thy  hand  be  on 

The  man  of  Thy  right  hand; 

The  man  who  by  Thy  grace  is  strong 
To  serve  Thee  in  the  land. 

So  will  we  not  go  back, 

Jehovah  God,  from  Thee: 

O  quicken  us!  and  we  henceforth 
Thy  followers  will  be. 

Turn  us  again,  O  Lord, 

And  cause  Thy  face  to  shine! 

Then  shall  we  from  our  foes  be  saved, 
Saved  by  Thy  help  divine. 

PSALM  81 

To  God  our  strength  now  sing, 

And  make  a  joyful  noise; 

Your  harp  and  timbrel  bring, 

Him  laud  with  thankful  voice: 

A  psalm  in  your  devotions  take, 

And  sacred  melodies  awake. 

The  trumpet,  in  His  praise, 

Blow  ye  in  the  new  moon; 

And  on  our  great  feast  days 
Your  hearts  and  lips  attune: 

This  was  a  law  for  Israel, 

A  law  of  Jacob’s  God  as  well. 

I  heard  in  my  distress, 

With  yearnings  in  its  tone, 

In  Sinai’s  wilderness, 

A  language  yet  unknown; 

But  I,  with  my  sin-darkened  thought, 

Its  pity  comprehended  not. 


146 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


His  shoulder  I  removed 

From  burdens  hard  to  bear; 

His  hands  made  free  have  proved 
My  ever  watchful  care: 

Thus  did  the  Lord,  when  by  the  hand, 

He  led  His  hosts  from  Egypt’s  land. 

Thou  didst  in  trouble  call, 

And  I  delivered  thee; 

The  waters  caused  to  fall 
In  fountains  full  and  free: 

O  doubt  no  more  my  constant  love! 

At  Meribah  I  did  it  prove. 

My  people  now  give  ear, 

And  I  will  testify 

To  thee,  if  thou  wilt  hear, 

And  unto  me  draw  nigh: 

There  shall  no  strange  gods  dwell  in  thee, 

Nor  to  them  shalt  thou  bow  the  knee. 

I  am  the  Lord  Thy  God, 

Which  brought  thee  safely  out 

From  Egypt  with  my  rod, 

And  with  a  joyful  shout: 

Open  thy  mouth,  it  will  I  fill, 

If  thou  wilt  do  my  holy  will. 

My  people  would  not  hear 
My  voice,  nor  Israel  heed; 

They  hastened  without  fear 
On  wordly  husks  to  feed: 

O  that  my  people  had  believed 

On  me  and  all  my  laws  received. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


147 


Their  enemies  I  would 

Have  soon  subdued  and  slain; 
Against  their  foes  I  would 
Have  turned  my  hand  again; 

All  haters  of  the  righteous  God, 

Would  then  have  bowed  before  His  rod. 


His  own  He  would  have  led 
In  paths  secure  and  sweet; 

And  them  He  would  have  fed 
With  choicest  of  His  wheat; 
Yea,  from  the  honey-yielding  rock, 
He  would  have  satisfied  His  flock. 


PSALM  82 

Lo!  within  the  congregation, 

Stands  the  Lord,  our  God  Most  High: 
He  among  the  gods  now  judgeth; 

None  His  wisdom  can  deny. 

How  long  will  ye  judge  injustly? 

How  long  wicked  men  accept? 

Now  defend  the  poor  and  needy, 

And  the  fatherless  protect. 


Yea,  the  needy  now  deliver, 

Save  them  from  the  unjust  hand, 
For  they  know  not  of  their  danger, 
Neither  will  they  understand. 

Out  of  course  are  the  foundations 
Of  the  earth,  because  of  sin; 
Father,  Son,  and  Holy  Spirit, 

Now  the  reign  of  grace  begin. 


148 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


I  have  said  that  ye  are  children 

Of  the  Lord,  our  God  Most  High; 

But  ye  all,  like  men,  shall  perish, 

And  like  princes  fall  and  die. 

God,  arise!  and  judge  the  nations, 

Claim  the  earth,  and  dwell  therein; 

Thou  all  nations  shalt  inherit, 

And  them  cleanse  of  ev’ry  sin. 

PSALM  83 

Keep  not  Thou  silence,  O  my  God! 

Hold  not  Thy  peace,  spare  not  Thy  rod, 
And  be  no  longer  still, 

For  lo!  Thine  enemies  arise; 

They  evil  unto  Thee  devise, 

And  scorn  to  do  Thy  will. 

Thy  saints  they  long  have  sought  to  harm; 

They  long  have  lifted  up  the  arm, 

Thy  chosen  to  annoy; 

Yea,  they  have  said:  Come,  let  us  all 

Fulfill  at  once  our  cherished  call, 

This  nation  to  destroy. 

So  that  the  name  of  Israel 

No  wayfarer  may  longer  tell, 

Nor  traveler  may  know. 

Together  they,  with  one  consent, 

Were  then  on  our  destruction  bent, 

And  our  last  overthrow. 

Lo!  Edom  doth  against  us  rise, 

And  Moab’s  hosts  confront  our  eyes, 

And  cast  us  in  despair; 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


149 


Yea,  the  Philistines  join,  and  those 
Who  long  have  been  our  bitter  foes, 
Do  meet  us  ev’rywhere. 


Assur  is  also  joined  with  them; 

What  power  can  their  fury  stem 
But  Thine,  O  Lord  Most  High*? 

Rout  them  as  Thou,  in  times  of  old, 

Didst  rout  the  heathen  that  made  bold 
Thy  children  to  defy. 


Lord,  may  Thy  vengeance  overtake 
Those  who  would  us  their  captives  make, 
And  would  Thy  name  blaspheme; 
Who  said:  Come  let  us  snatch  away 
The  houses  of  the  Lord  for  prey. 

This  wets  their  cherished  dream. 


Lord,  make  them  fly,  as  flies  the  wind; 
Let  them  no  sure  foundation  find 
On  which  to  place  their  tents ; 

As  flame  the  mountain  sets  on  fire, 

So,  Lord,  consume  them  in  Thine  ire, 
As  one  who  ne’er  relents. 


Let  them  be  filled  with  contrite  shame, 
That  they  may  also  trust  Thy  name, 
And  for  forgiveness  call, 

And  men  may  know  that  Thou  alone 
Jehovah,  art  upon  Thy  throne, 

And  Sovereign  over  all. 


150 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


PSALM  84 

How  amiable,  O  Lord, 

Thy  tabernacles  are! 

My  soul  doth  long  for  them 
When  1  am  distant  far: 

My  heart  and  flesh  cry  out  in  pain, 

Till  I  an  entrance  there  shall  gain. 

The  sparrow  there  hath  found 
A  house  where  she  may  rest; 

The  swallow  there  her  young 
Doth  lay  within  her  nest; 

E’en  on  Thine  altars,  O  my  King, 

They  safely  rest  beneath  her  wing. 

Thrice  blest  are  they  that  dwell 
Within  Thy  house,  O  Lord; 

They’ll  still  be  praising  Thee 
In  songs  of  sweet  accord: 

Blest  is  the  man  whose  strength  is  found 

In  Thee,  and  whom  Thou  hedgeth  round. 

Who  passing  through  the  vale 
Of  Baca,  parched  and  dry, 

Doth  make  of  it  a  pool, 

With  showers  from  on  high: 

How  cool  and  moist  the  once  parched  way ! 

Faint  hearts,  rejoicing,  there  would  stay. 

They  go  from  strength  to  strength, 

And  all  of  them  appear 

Before  the  Lord  their  God, 

Devoid  of  doubt  and  fear: 

O  Lord  of  Hosts,  hear  Thou  my  prayer! 

Give  ear,  O  God  of  Jacob,  there. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


151 


Behold!  O  God,  our  shield, 

And  Thine  anointed  stay; 

For  here,  within  Thy  courts, 

I’d  rather  spend  one  day, 

Than  thousands  in  the  tents  of  sin, 
Where  wickedness  doth  dwell  within. 


The  Lord’s  a  sun  and  shield; 

The  Lord  gives  grace  untold; 

To  them  that  walk  aright, 

No  good  doth  He  withhold: 

O  Lord  of  Hosts,  our  portion  be! 
Blest  is  the  man  that  trusts  in  Thee. 


PSALM  85 

Lord,  Jehovah,  Thou  hast  ever 
Gracious  been  unto  our  land; 

Egyptian  bondage  Thou  didst  sever 
From  Thy  people  by  Thy  hand; 

Though  they  oft  were  prone  to  leave  Thee, 
Thou  didst  them  their  sins  forgive; 

Let  them  not  henceforth  deceive  Thee, 
Pardon  them  and  let  them  live. 


Turn  us,  God  of  our  salvation! 

Cause  Thine  anger  now  to  cease! 
Will  Thy  wrath  in  aggravation, 
’Gainst  Thy  people  still  increase? 
Wilt  Thou  not  again  revive  us, 

That  we  may  in  Thee  rejoice? 
Let  Thy  rod  in  mercy  drive  us 
Soon  in  Thee  to  find  our  choice. 


152 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


I  will  hear  what  God  is  speaking; 

He  will  speak  unto  His  saints; 

While  His  righteousness  they’re  seeking, 

He  will  banish  their  complaints. 

His  salvation  cometh  surely 
Unto  such  as  fear  His  name, 

They  who  for  God’s  glory  purely, 

Do  His  saving  grace  proclaim. 

Truth  and  mercy  now  commingle, 
Righteousness  and  peace  unite; 

They  whose  love  for  God  is  single, 

Worship  Him  in  pure  delight. 

Truth  from  out  the  earth  ascendeth, 

Righteousness  from  Heaven  comes  down; 
Blessings  for  the  land  ne’er  endeth, 

God  shall  all  her  efforts  crown. 

Yea,  the  Lord,  with  hand  unsparing, 

Shall  bestow  that  which  is  good, 

And  His  own,  Clod’s  favor  sharing, 

Shall  eat  of  the  choicest  food. 
Righteousness  shall  go  before  him; 

God  will  set  him  in  the  way, 

And  to  perfect  peace  restore  him, 

In  that  glad,  expectant  day. 

PSALM  86 

O  Lord,  my  God,  bow  down  Thine  ear; 

Hear  me,  for  I  am  poor; 

Preserve  my  soul,  dispel  my  fear; 

My  fainting  heart  restore. 

Jehovah  God,  Thy  servant  save, 

That  puts  his  trust  in  Thee; 

Be  merciful  to  me;  I  crave 
Salvation  full  and  free. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


153 


Thy  servant’s  soul  make  to  rejoice, 
For  unto  Thee  I  cry; 

Hear  Thou  my  weak  and  falt’ring  voice, 
And  unto  me  draw  nigh. 

For  Thou,  O  Lord,  art  ever  good 
And  ready  to  forgive; 

Thy  mercy  hath  at  all  times  stood — 

'Tis  by  Thy  grace  we  live. 

Give  ear,  O  Lord,  unto  my  prayer, 
Unto  my  voice  attend; 

In  troublous  days  I’ll  seek  Thee  there; 
Thou  wilt  deliv’rance  send. 

Among  the  gods,  none  doth  compare 
With  Thee,  O  Lord,  our  God; 

They  all  do  earthly  weakness  share, 
And  fall  beneath  Thy  rod. 

All  nations  that  Thou  didst  create, 
Thy  power  shall  proclaim; 

They’ll  worship  Thee  with  hearts  elate, 
And  glorify  Thy  name. 

For  Thou  art  great,  Jehovah  God, 

And  doest  wondrous  things; 

Thine  own  Thou  leadest  by  Thy  rod, 
And  hideth  ’neath  Thy  wings. 

Teach  me  Thy  way,  and  make  it  clear, 
And  I  will  walk  therein; 

Incline  my  heart  Thy  name  to  fear, 

And  keep  my  soul  from  sin. 


154 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Thee  will  I  praise!  and  Thee  adore, 
Henceforth  with  all  my  heart; 
Thy  name  I’ll  praise  for  evermore, 
And  Thy  great  love  impart. 


For  great  Thy  mercy  is  to  me; 

Thou  hast  my  soul  redeemed; 
Thou  hast  from  evil  set  me  free, 
When  hell  about  me  gleamed. 


O  Lord,  the  proud  are  risen  now 
Against  me,  to  destroy; 

They  who  would  not  before  Thee  bow, 
Search  for  me  to  annoy. 


But,  Thou,  O  Lord,  art  full  of  grace, 
Long  suffering  and  kind 
To  those  who  humbly  seek  Thy  face, 
And  search,  Thy  truth  to  find. 


Turn  unto  me  and  mercy  show; 

Give  to  Thy  servant  strength; 
Salvation,  Lord,  on  me  bestow, 
And  give  me  joy  at  length. 


Show  me  a  token  now  for  good, 
That  all  my  foes  may  see ; 

Let  it  be  clearly  understood 
That  Thou  didst  comfort  me. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


155 


PSALM  87 

Thy  church,  O  God,  rests  on  the  holy  mountain; 

Secure  it  stands  against  besieging  foes; 

From  out  her  springs  an  ever  living  fountain, 
Which  into  streams  of  rich  salvation  flows. 


Jehovah  loveth  well  the  gates  of  Zion; 

Yea,  more  than  all  the  dwellings  of  the  tribes. 
For  out  of  them  there  comes  a  holy  scion 

More  glorious  than  the  tongue  of  man  describes. 


What  peoples,  cities,  countries,  I  would  mention, 
Were  by  thee  from  their  idol  worship  torn; 
What  multitudes  to  thee  gave  their  attention, 
And  who  into  the  kingdom  there  were  born. 


Of  Zion,  it  shall  there  be  said  with  gladness, 

This  man,  and  that,  were  born  within  her  walls: 
There  they  shall  peaceful  be,  devoid  of  sadness, 
Who  thither  go  when  God,  the  Highest,  calls. 


The  Lord  shall  count,  when  He  His  people  writeth, 
That  this  and  that  redeemed  one  was  born  there; 
And  music  that  the  list’ning  ear  delighteth, 

Each  one  of  them  shall  in  that  city  share. 


O  stream  of  life!  O  river  of  salvation! 

Let  now  mine  eyes  thy  sacred  waters  see; 

And  let  me  drink  thereof  with  soul  elation — 
Lord,  may  my  springs  be  ever  found  in  Thee. 


156 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


PSALM  88 

O  Lord  God  of  my  salvation, 

Day  and  night  I’ve  cried  to  Thee; 

Turn  from  me  Thine  indignation; 

Let  my  prayer  accepted  be, 

For  my  soul  is  full  of  trouble, 

And  my  life  draw’s  near  the  grave; 

Give  to  me  a  portion  double — 

Me  from  sin  and  sorrow  save. 

As  a  lost  one  I  am  counted, 

As  a  man  that  has  no  strength ; 

No  memorial  shall  be  mounted, 

There  to  mark  my  grave  at  length. 

Thou  hast  laid  me  in  the  lowest 
Depths  of  grief  that  can  assail, 

For  my  soul  Thine  anger  knoweth 
As  I  enter  grief’s  dark  vale. 

Mine  acquaintance — best  beloved — 
Thou  hast  put  away  from  me; 

Yea,  Thou  hast  me  far  removed 
From  the  friends  I  long  to  see. 

Day  and  night  my  spirit  mourneth, 

And  I  stretch  my  hands  to  Thee; 

Save  me,  Lord,  from  him  that  scorneth; 
Unto  me  a  ransom  be. 

Wilt  Thou  to  the  dead  show  wonders? 
Shall  the  dead  arise  and  praise? 

Lo!  the  grave  each  earth-tie  sunders, 
With  it  ends  our  mortal  days, 

Shall,  O  Lord,  Thy  loving-kindness 
Be  declared  within  the  grave? 

Or  relief  from  sin’s  dark  blindness, 

Can  we  in  destruction  have? 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


157 


Shall  the  wonders  of  Thy  dealings 
In  the  darksome  tomb  be  known? 
Shall  Thy  truth,  on  wings  of  healing, 

In  the  realm  of  death  be  shown? 

But  to  Thee  have  I,  with  weeping, 
Daily  prayed  aloud,  O  Lord, 

Prayed  I  still  while  night  came  creeping, 
That  Thou  wouldst  me  help  afford. 


Lord,  why  hast  Thou  in  Thine  anger 
Cast  me  far  away  from  Thee? 

Why  dost  Thou  in  times  of  danger 
Hide  Thy  longed-for  face  from  me? 
From  my  youth  I’ve  been  afflicted, 
oft  r  ve  ready  been  to  die; 

Failures  have  my  hopes  restricted; 
Terrors  dark  around  me  lie. 


Thy  fierce  wrath  me  goeth  over, 

And  Thy  terrors  cut  me  off; 

They,  like  water,  do  me  cover, 

While  my  foes  against  me  scoff. 

In  my  grief  Thou  hast  bereft  me 
Of  my  dearest  earthly  friends; 
They,  ’mid  darkness  deep,  have  left  me; 
None  to  me  a  message  sends. 


PSALM  89 

Of  all  Thy  tender  mercies,  Lord, 

I  will  forever  sing; 

The  tidings  of  Thy  faithfulness, 
I  will  to  others  bring. 


158 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Thy  mercy  everlasting  is; 

Thy  faithfulness  shall  stand, 

Established  in  the  heavens  high, 

By  Thy  almighty  hand. 

A  covenant  of  grace  I  made 
With  all  my  chosen  ones; 

An  everlasting  throne  I  built 
For  David  and  his  sons. 

The  heavens  shall  Thy  wonders  praise, 
O  Lord  of  hosts  above, 

And  the  assembly  of  the  saints 
Thy  faithfulness  shall  prove. 

For  who  in  Heaven  can  be  compared 
Unto  the  Lord  Most  High? 

Or  who  among  the  mighty  can 
With  Him  in  glory  vie? 

Our  Lord  is  greatly  to  be  feared, 
Where  saints  do  congregate; 

And  to  be  held  in  reverence 
By  those  that  on  Him  wait. 

In  all  the  universe,  O  Lord, 

Who  is  there  strong  like  Thee? 

Compared  with  all  Thy  faithfulness, 
Who  can  as  faithful  be? 

The  raging  of  the  ocean  deep, 

Thou  rulest  by  Thy  will; 

The  wildest  waves  are  calm  when’er 
Thou  biddest  them  be  still. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


159 


Thou  hast  proud  Rahab  taken  thus, 

E’en  as  a  strong  one  slain; 

Thine  enemies,  with  Thy  strong  arm, 

Thou  hast  dispersed  again. 

The  heavens  and  earth  are  Thine,  O  Lord, 
The  world  and  all  therein; 

Thou  didst  them  found,  soon  may  they  all 
Their  songs  of  praise  begin. 

The  north  and  south  Thou  hast,  O  Lord, 
Created  by  Thy  voice; 

Bald  Tabor’s  height,  and  Hermon’s  mount, 
Shall  in  Thy  name  rejoice. 

Thou  hast,  O  Lord,  a  mighty  arm, 

A  strong  and  high  right  hand; 

What  king  is  there  but  Thee,  who  can 
Redeem  and  save  the  land? 

Justice  and  judgment  dwell  within 
Thy  throne  of  saving  grace; 

Mercy  and  truth  shall  go  before 
Thy  gracious  heavenly  face. 

How  happy  are  all  they  who  know 
Salvation’s  joyful  sound! 

They  all  shall  walk  within  Thy  light 
Who  in  Thy  ways  are  found. 

Yea,  in  Thy  name  shall  they  rejoice 
Increasingly  each  day, 

And  in  Thy  ways  of  righteousness, 

Shall  they  delight  to  stay. 


160 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Thou  art  the  glory  of  their  strength, 

O  mighty  God  of  praise! 

And  in  Thy  favor  shall  our  horn 
Exalted  be  always. 

For  God,  the  Lord,  is  our  defence, 
Of  Him  aloud  we  sing; 

The  holy  One  of  Jacob  is 
Our  everlasting  king. 

There,  in  a  vision  Thou  didst  speak: 
Lo!  I  laid  hold  on  one, 

Exalted  high  and  powerful, 

Who  hath  my  favor  won. 

My  servant  David  1  have  found, 

And  oil  on  him  have  poured; 

My  hand  shall  ever  be  with  him, 

I  shall  him  strength  afford. 

The  enemy  shall  not  exact 
On  him  in  any  wise; 

His  foes  I  surely  will  beat  down, 

And  plague  before  his  eyes. 

My  faithfulness  shall  be  with  him, 
My  mercy  he  shall  see, 

And  in  my  name  exalted  shall 
His  horn  forever  be. 

In  waters  I  will  set  his  hand. 

And  he  aloud  shall  cry: 

The  Rock  of  my  salvation  is 
Jehovah,  God  on  High. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


161 


My  son  I  will  him  make;  his  throne 
Shall  on  the  earth  be  sure; 

My  mercy  will  I  keep  for  him, 

My  cov’nant  shall  endure. 

His  seed  will  I  continue  still; 

Unmoved  shall  stand  his  throne. 

But  if  his  children  break  my  laws, 

My  sov’reignty  disown; 

If  they  my  holy  statutes  break, 

Then  I,  their  sov’reign  God, 

Will  visit  their  transgressions  with 
My  sharp  correcting  rod. 

But  I  my  lovingkindness  will 
Not  utterly  remove; 

And  ev’ry  promise  I  have  made, 

A  faithful  one  shall  prove. 

Each  promise  with  him  I  will  keep, 

Nor  change  a  single  word; 

I  shall  not  ever  falsely  speak 
To  David,  saith  the  Lord. 

His  seed  forever  shall  endure; 

His  throne  before  me  stands, 

Bright  as  the  sun  and  moon,  whose  beams 
Light  the  most  distant  lands. 

But,  Lord,  Thou  hast  cut  off  from  Thee 
Thine  own  anointed  king; 

Thy  promise  hast  withheld,  and  Thou 
Didst  him  to  sorrow  bring. 


162 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


His  hedges  Thou  hast  broken  down, 

His  strongholds  overthrown ; 

All  spoil  him  that  pass  by  the  way; 
As  a  reproach  he’s  known. 

And  of  his  foes,  Thou  hast,  O  Lord, 

Set  up  their  strong  right  hand; 

Thy  servant’s  sword  is  turned,  nor  can 
He  in  the  battle  stand. 

His  glory  Thou  hast  made  to  cease, 

His  throne  cast  to  the  ground; 

His  youth  is  shortened,  and  Thou  hast 
With  shame  him  wrapped  around. 

How  long,  O  Lord!  wilt  Thou  in  wrath 
Thyself  forever  hide'? 

Remember,  Lord,  how  short  the  time 
That  I  may  here  abide. 

Why  hast  Thou  made  all  men  in  vain? 

What  man  shall  not  see  death? 

Who  from  the  grave  may  save  his  soul, 
When  gone  life’s  feeble  breath? 

Thy  former  loving  kindnesses, 

O  where  may  they  be  found? 
Remember  the  reproach,  O  Lord, 

With  which  I  now  am  bound. 

Yea,  the  reproach  Thy  foes  and  mine 
Have  cast  on  me  again — 

Blest  be  the  Lord  for  evermore; 

Amen;  and  yet,  Amen. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


163 


PSALM  90 

Thou  hast  been  our  place  of  dwelling, 
Lord,  in  generations  past, 

E’er  were  formed  the  lofty  mountains, 
Or  the  ocean’s  bounds  made  feist. 

Thou  art  God  from  everlasting, 

And  forever  Thou  shalt  be: 

Man  Thou  turnest  to  destruction, 
Seeking  his  return  to  Thee. 

For  a  thousand  years  in  passing, 

As  a  day  are  in  Thy  sight; 

Yea,  to  Thee  they  pass  as  quickly 
As  doth  pass  a  watch  at  night; 

As  a  rushing  flood  they  vanish, 

Or  as  time  flies  by  in  sleep ; 

Or  like  grass,  which  quickly  groweth, 
Dying  while  the  mowers  reap. 

In  the  morning  it  doth  florish, 

Cov’ring  all  the  place  around, 

But  when  come  the  shades  of  evening, 
Lo!  it  withers  on  the  ground. 

Lord,  we’re  awed  by  Thy  fierce  anger, 
By  Thy  wrath  we  troubled  are; 

Thou  hast  set  our  sins  before  Thee, 
Thou  hast  cut  us  off  afar. 

For  our  days  on  earth  pass  swiftly — 
Mortal  man  cannot  them  hold — 

And  the  longest  years  slip  from  us 
As  a  tale  that’s  quickly  told. 

All  our  days  on  earth  when  numbered, 
Are  but  three  score  years  and  ten; 

If  by  strength  they  should  be  four  score, 
Yet,  they’re  but  a  handbreadth  then. 


164 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Of  the  power  of  Thine  answer, 

Who  can  know,  O  Lord,  our  God? 

E’en  according:  to  Thine  anger, 

So  is  found  Thy  chast’ning  rod. 

Teach  us,  Lord,  our  days  to  number, 
That  we  may  our  hearts  apply 

Unto  wisdom,  Thy  way  seeking, 

Now  while  Thou  art  passing  by. 

Lord,  return  and  meet  Thy  servants; 
Let  us  hear  Thy  pard’ning  voice; 

Satisfy  us  with  Thy  mercy, 

That  we  may  in  Thee  rejoice; 

Make  us  glad,  O  Lord,  according 
To  the  days  we  suffered  pain, 

In  the  years,  so  full  of  evil, 

When  we  seemed  to  work  in  vain. 

Let  Thy  work  unto  Thy  servants 
Now,  O  Lord,  our  God  appear; 

And  Thy  glory  to  their  children, 
May  it  unto  them  draw  near; 

Let  Thy  glory  be  upon  us, 

And  our  work,  establish  Thou; 

Yea,  our  work,  O  Lord,  establish, 
While  we  now  before  Thee  bow. 

PSALM  91 

He  that  dwelleth  in  the  place 
Of  the  Lord,  our  God  Most  High, 

Shall  be  conscious  of  His  grace, 

And  shall  feel  His  presence  nigh. 

I  will  say  of  God,  the  Lord, 

He  my  refuge  is  and  strength; 

He  will  help  to  me  afford, 

And  the  victory  give  at  length. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


165 


Surely  He’ll  deliver  thee 

From  the  fowler’s  hurtful  snare; 

And  when  plagues  thine  eye  shalt  see, 
His  protection  thou  shalt  share; 

’Neath  His  feathers  He  will  hide 
Thee  in  a  protection  sure; 

’Neath  His  wings  thou  shalt  abide, 

Able  all  things  to  endure. 

Thou  shalt  not  in  darkness  fear, 

Nor  in  terror  be  at  night; 

When  the  arrow  passeth  near, 

It  shall  miss  thee  in  its  flight; 

Of  the  pestilence  shalt  thou 

Have  no  fear  when  dark  the  moon, 

Nor  before  destruction  bow, 

When  it  would  thee  waste  at  noon. 

Yea,  a  thousand  at  thy  side, 

Shall  into  destruction  fall; 

And  ten  thousand  that  deride 

Thee,  shall  answer  death’s  swift  call; 

But  thou  shalt  escape  the  sword 
Only  with  thine  eyes  behold, 

What  shall  be  the  just  reward 
Of  vile  men,  defiant,  bold. 

Lo !  because  thy  soul  hath  made 
The  Almighty  thy  defence, 

There’ll  no  plague  on  thee  be  laid, 

Evil  shall  be  driven  hence; 

For  He  shall  His  angels  charge, 

Thee  to  keep  in  all  thy  ways; 

They  shall  all  thy  path  enlarge, 

And  protect  thee  all  thy  days. 


166 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Thou  shalt  on  the  lion  tread; 

On  the  adder  place  thy  feet; 

Yea,  thy  soul  shall  have  no  dread 
When  thou  dost  the  dragon  meet. 

’Tis  because  his  soul  is  set 
On  me,  that  I  him  defend, 

And  will  lift  to  honor  yet, 

And  will  keep  unto  the  end. 

When  in  prayer  he  calls  on  me, 

1  will  haste  to  answer  him; 

My  salvation  shall  he  see, 

When  his  earthly  hopes  grow  dim; 

I  his  soul  will  satisfy 

With  long  life,  and  to  him  show 

My  salvation;  and  mine  eye 
Shall  attend  him  here  below. 


PSALM  92 

My  soul,  ’tis  good  to  give 

Thanks  to  Thee,  God  of  love; 

And  praises  sing  unto  Thy  name, 
And  all  Thy  goodness  prove. 

Thy  lovingkindness  show 
In  the  bright  morning  light, 

And  all  Thy  faithfulness  declare 
When  fall  the  shades  of  night. 

Upon  an  instrument 

Of  strings  may  there  be  found 

Sweet  music,  and  upon  the  harp 
With  deep  and  solemn  sound. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


167 


For  Thou,  O  Lord,  hast  made 
Me  glad  to  sing  Thy  praise: 

1*11  triumph  in  Thy  wondrous  works 
Through  all  my  coming  days. 

O  Lord,  how  great  Thy  works  ! 

How  deep  Thine  ev’ry  thought! 

A  foolish  man  can  never  know 
What  they  have  for  us  wrought. 

When  wicked  men  spring  up — 

As  doth  the  early  grass — 

It  is  that  they  shall  from  their  place 
To  swift  destruction  pass. 

But  Thou,  Jehovah  Lord, 

Art  high  for  evermore; 

Thy  foes  shall  all  be  scattered  far 
On  death’s  relentless  shore. 

Lord,  Thou  wilt  lift  my  horn, 

And  it  exalt  on  high ; 

My  head  with  oil  Thou  wilt  anoint, 
While  foes  shall  helpless  lie. 

The  righteous,  they  shall  grow, 

As  grows  the  tall  palm  tree; 

As  cedars  grow  in  Lebanon, 

So  shall  their  branches  be. 

Those  that  are  planted  well 
Within  Thy  house,  O  Lord, 

Shall  flourish  in  the  courts  of  God, 
According  to  His  word. 


168 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


And  they  shall  still  bring  forth 
Ripe  fruit  in  their  last  days; 

They  shall  be  ever  flourishing 
Along  the  heavenly  ways. 

They’ll  show  that  God  is  true, 

Upright,  and  wise,  and  just: 

He  is  my  Rock,  my  Strength,  my  Hope; 
In  Him  I’ll  ever  trust. 

PSALM  93 

God,  the  Lord,  forever  reigneth; 

He  is  clothed  with  majesty; 

He  is  clothed  with  strength  and  honor; 

He  doth  rule  o’er  land  and  sea. 

He  the  world  hath  well  established, 

That  it  cannot  be  removed; 

Lord,  Thou  art  from  everlasting — 

This  Thy  wondrous  works  have  proved. 

Lo!  the  floods  their  voice  have  lifted, 
And  the  waves  a  tumult  make; 

But  the  Lord  on  high  is  greater, 

He  control  o’er  them  doth  take. 

Sure  are  all  Thy  testimonies, 

They  with  righteousness  accord; 
Holiness  Thy  house  becometh, 

Now,  and  evermore,  O  Lord. 

PSALM  94 

O  Lord  Jehovah,  unto  whom 
All  vengeance  doth  belong, 

Regard  with  pity  our  estate, 

And  show  Thyself  most  strong. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


169 


Lift  up  Thyself,  Thou  Judge  of  all; 

The  wayward,  proud,  remand ; 

How  long  shall  wicked  men,  O  Lord, 
Triumph  throughout  the  land? 

How  long  shall  they,  with  uttVance  bold. 
Speak  hard  and  bitter  things? 

And  they  that  work  iniquity, 

To  boastful  words  give  wings? 

Thy  flock  they  into  pieces  break, 

And  scourge  Thine  heritage; 

The  widow  and  the  orphan  slay 
In  their  unholy  rage. 

And  yet  they  say — mistaken  hope — 
Jehovah  will  not  see; 

The  God  of  Jacob  on  His  throne 
Will  not  regardful  be. 

Ye  fools!  when  will  ye  be  more  wise? 

Lo!  He  that  made  the  ear, 

Shall  He  not  mark  your  scornful  words, 
And  your  revilings  hear? 

And  He  that  formed  the  eye,  shall  He 
Not  all  thine  evil  know? 

The  Lord  above  in  anger  looks 
On  sinful  deeds  below. 

O  shall  not  He  correct,  who  doth 
The  heathen  tribes  chastise? 

And  He  that  knowledge  shows  to  man, 
Shall  He  not  well  advise? 


170 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


The  Lord  doth  know  the  thoughts  of  all. 
That  they  are  vanity; 

Blest  is  the  man  whom  God  rebukes, 

And  His  law  makes  to  see. 

That  Thou  mayst  give  him  rest  from  all 
The  days  of  sore  dismay; 

Until  the  pit  be  digged  when  Thou 
The  wicked  soon  will  slay. 

The  Lord  will  not  cast  off  His  own, 
Nor  from  His  flock  depart; 

But  righteous  judgment  shall  return 
To  the  upright  in  heart. 

Against  the  evil  doers,  who 
Will  now  for  me  arise? 

Or  who  stand  up  for  me  against 
The  publisher  of  lies? 

Unless  the  Lord  had  been  my  help, 

Sore  grief  had  been  my  cup; 

When  I  in  slipp’ry  paths  did  walk, 

Thy  mercy  held  me  up. 

In  all  the  multitude  of  thoughts 
That  o’er  me  surging  roll, 

Thy  comforts,  Lord,  within  me  dwell, 

And  they  delight  my  soul. 

Shall  they  that  work  iniquity 
Have  fellowship  with  Thee? 

’Gainst  righteous  men  they  set  themselves, 
And  would  their  judges  be. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


171 


But  sure  the  Lord  is  my  defence, 

Jehovah  is  my  Rock; 

My  place  of  refuge  is  my  God, 

While  unbelievers  mock. 

The  Lord  shall  surely  bring  on  them 
Their  own  iniquity; 

In  all  their  sins  they’ll  be  cut  off; 

Death  shall  their  portion  be. 

PSALM  95 

Come  ye  saints,  and  lift  your  voices, 
Sing  aloud  unto  the  Lord; 

Come  while  ev’ry  heart  rejoices, 

Sing  His  praise  with  one  accord; 

To  the  Rock  of  our  salvation, 

Let  us  make  a  joyful  noise — 

Look,  my  soul,  with  expectation, 

And  recount  with  praise  thy  joys. 

Let  us  meet  Him  with  thanksgiving; 
Make  a  joyful  noise  with  psalms; 

Great  is  He  among  the  living, 

Spread  His  pathway  now  with  palms. 

Lo!  the  hills  and  the  deep  places 
Of  the  earth  are  in  His  hand; 

All  the  sea  His  knowledge  traces, 

It  He  made  and  the  dry  land. 

Come,  O  come,  and  let  us,  kneeling, 
Worship  now  our  Lord  and  King; 

Banish  each  unholy  feeling; 

Sacrifices  to  Him  bring; 

For  He  is  the  Lord  and  Savior 
Of  His  chosen,  cherished  band; 

We,  the  people  of  His  favor, 

Are  the  sheep  of  His  right  hand. 


172 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


If  you  hear  an  interceding 
Voice  today  within  your  soul, 

List,  it  is  the  Spirit,  pleading, 

Yearning  now  to  make  you  whole; 
Then,  O  stifle  not  the  feeling — 

As  the  tempted  did  of  old — 

But  with  hands  outstretched  for  healing, 
To  His  loving  promise  hold. 


Forty  years  my  heart  was  grieved 
With  this  people,  said  the  Lord: 

They  have  not  on  me  believed, 

Nor  have  known  my  Sacred  Word; 
Unto  whom  I  sware  in  anger 

That  they  should  not  gain  my  rest: 
Guide  us  safely  through  all  danger; 
Give  to  us  Thy  rich  bequest. 


PSALM  96 

Come,  let  us  sing  unto  the  Lord; 
Sing  all  the  earth  with  one  accord, 
And  Him  obey; 

Sing  to  the  Lord  and  bless  His  name, 
His  free  salvation  now  proclaim 
From  day  to  day. 


To  heathen  tribes  His  name  declare, 
Let  them  His  grace  and  glory  share 
And  wonders  see; 

The  Lord  is  great  and  to  be  praised, 
Above  all  gods  His  power  is  raised, 
Feared  let  Him  be. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


173 


The  gods  of  all  the  heathen  lands 
Are  idols,  made  by  their  own  hands 
From  wood  and  stone; 

The  Lord  the  earth  and  heavens  made, 
Honor  and  majesty  are  laid 
On  Him  alone. 

Give  unto  Him  exalted  praise, 

Unto  Him  strength  and  glory  raise; 

An  off’ring  bring 
Into  His  courts;  with  fervent  joy 
His  graces  let  your  tongues  employ, 

His  praise  to  sing. 

Let  all  the  people  serve  with  fear, 

And  say  to  unbelievers  near: 

Our  Lord  doth  reign. 

Let  all  the  fields  be  joyful  too; 

Let  all  the  trees  their  praise  renew, 

And  vigor  gain. 

He  cometh,  yea,  He  cometh  now, 

To  judge  the  earth;  before  Him  bow, 
And  Him  believe; 

He’ll  judge  the  world  with  righteousness, 
And  He  with  truth  His  own  will  bless, 
And  them  receive. 


PSALM  97 

The  Lord  Jehovah  reigneth  still; 

Let  all  the  earth  rejoice, 

And  let  the  islands  of  the  sea 
Praise  with  united  voice. 


174 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


The  clouds  and  darkness  gather  thick 
About  Him  and  His  own, 

But  righteousness  and  judgment  stand, 
Secure  upon  His  throne. 

A  fire  doth  before  Him  go, 

And  burneth  up  His  foes; 

His  lightnings  hath  the  world  beheld, 
And  trembled  at  His  blows. 

The  hills,  like  wax,  have  melted  at 
The  presence  of  the  Lord; 

The  heavens  declare  His  righteousness; 
His  glory,  saints  record. 

Confused  be  all  of  them  that  serve 
Dumb  images  of  stone; 

That  boast  of  idols ;  turn  from  them, 

And  serve  the  Lord  alone. 

Because  of  Thy  right  judgments,  Lord, 
Fair  Zion  then  was  glad; 

And  Judah’s  daughters  all  rejoiced, 

Who  had  afore  been  sad. 

For  high  above  the  earth  art  Thou, 
Jehovah,  Triune  God, 

And  all  the  sordid  things  of  earth 
Must  bow  before  Thy  rod. 

Ye  that  do  love  the  Lord  aright, 

All  sin  and  evil  hate; 

The  Lord  preserves  the  souls  of  them 
That  do  upon  Him  wait. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


175 


A  light  is  to  the  righteous  given, 

A  light  to  show  the  way; 

And  gladness  for  the  pure  in  heart, 
Their  portion  is  each  day. 


Ye  righteous,  now  look  up  and  sing, 
And  in  the  Lord  rejoice; 

Give  thanks  for  all  His  holiness, 
With  glad  united  voice. 


PSALM  98 

Unto  the  Lord  sing  a  new  song; 

High  praises  do  to  Him  belong 
For  all  that  He  hath  done; 

His  mighty  arm  and  His  right  hand 
Hath  vict’ry  gained  throughout  the  land, 
And  our  redemption  won. 


The  Lord  hath  made  His  power  known, 
His  righteousness  to  all  hath  shown 
By  His  unerring  rod; 

Yea,  openly,  before  the  sight 
Of  heathen  tribes,  by  sacred  right, 

He  proved  that  He  was  God. 


His  goodness  He  remembered  well 
Toward  the  house  of  Israel 
When  they  oft  went  astray; 

All  earth  hath  seen  His  matchless  grace 
Toward  His  guilty,  fallen  race, 

That  He  did  not  them  slay. 


176 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


A  joyful  noise  and  sacred  mirth 
Make  to  the  Lord  of  all  the  earth ; 

Rejoice!  and  sing  His  praise; 

With  instruments,  and  with  the  voice, 
Before  the  Lord,  our  King,  rejoice, 

And  hallelujahs  raise. 

Yea,  let  the  sea  in  gladness  roar; 

The  earth,  let  it  the  Lord  adore, 

And  they  that  therein  dwell; 

Let  all  the  waters  clap  their  hands, 

And  let  the  hills  in  all  the  lands 
The  sacred  anthem  swell. 

Let  all  rejoice  before  the  Lord, 

For  He  hath  given  His  sacred  word 
That  He  their  Judge  will  be; 

With  righteousness  will  judge  the  world — 
The  deeds  of  all  shall  be  unfurled, 

And  judged  with  equity. 

PSALM  99 

The  Lord  doth  reign  supreme; 

Let  all  the  people  fear; 

Between  the  cherubims  He  sits, 

Let  all  the  earth  draw  near. 

The  Lord  is  great  in  Zion, 

Above  all  people  high; 

O  let  them  praise  Thy  holy  name, 

With  reverence  draw  nigh. 

The  King's  strength  also  loves 
In  judgment  wise  to  bless; 

He  doth  establish  equity. 

And  truth,  and  righteousness. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


177 


Exalt  ye  now  the  Lord, 

And  worship  at  His  feet, 

For  He  is  holy,  and  His  love 
Is  boundless  and  complete. 

Moses  and  Aaron  stood, 

To  call  upon  His  name; 

Jehovah  heard,  and  answered  them, 

You  will  He  hear  the  same. 

From  out  the  pillar  He 

Spoke  to  them  on  the  way; 

His  testimonies  they  did  keep; 

His  laws  observed  each  day. 

Yea,  Thou  didst  answer  them, 

O  Lord,  our  God,  most  true! 

And  pardoned  them,  but  didst  rebuke 
All  their  inventions  new. 

Exalt  the  Lord  our  God! 

Seek  ye  His  sacred  hill; 

Worship  and  honor  Him,  ye  saints, 
Obey  His  holy  will. 

PSALM  100 

Sing  to  the  Lord  with  glad  acclaim; 

Ye  lands,  exalt  His  holy  name; 

Him  serve  with  gladness,  and  rejoice 
Before  Him  with  united  voice. 

Know  ye  the  Lord  that  He  is  God; 

’Tis  He  that  made  us;  and  His  rod 
Doth  lead  us  where  sweet  pasture  grows, 
And  doth  protect  us  from  our  foes. 


178 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Enter  His  gates  and  courts  with  joy; 

With  sacred  praise  your  tongues  employ; 

Give  thanks  and  bless  His  name  always; 

With  cheerful  hearts  your  voices  raise. 

For  know,  the  Lord  our  God  is  good; 

His  mercy  hath  forever  stood ; 

His  truth  and  holiness  are  sure, 

And  shall  from  age  to  age  endure. 

PSALM  101 

Of  mercy  and  of  judgment  I  will  sing 
To  Thee,  O  Lord,  my  everlasting  King; 

I  wisely  will  conduct  myself  each  day, 

And  strive  to  walk  within  a  perfect  way. 

When  wilt  Thou  come  to  me  and  grace  impart  ? 
’Tis  then  I’ll  serve  Thee  with  a  perfect  heart; 
Nor  evil  shall  I  covet  with  mine  eyes ; 

And  evil  that  men  do,  I  shall  despise. 

A  froward  heart  shall  quickly  from  me  go ; 

A  wicked  person  I’ll  no  longer  know; 

He  that  his  friend  doth  slander  in  the  dark, 
Him  I’ll  cut  off,  and  each  high  look  I’ll  mark. 

Mine  eyes  shall  see  the  faithful  of  the  land, 
That  they  may  safely  dwell  at  my  right  hand; 
He  that  doth  walk  within  a  perfect  way, 

Shall  serve  me,  and  within  my  household  stay. 

But  he  that  works  deceit  and  telleth  lies, 

All  favor  unto  such  the  king  denies; 

The  king  can  not  in  any  such  delight; 

They  shall  no  longer  tarry  in  his  sight. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


179 


The  wicked  of  the  land,  I  will  destroy; 

They  shall  no  more  be  kept  in  my  employ; 
And  thus  I’ll  rid  the  land  of  evil  men, 

And  make  once  more  God’s  city  pure.  Amen. 


PSALM  102 

Hear  my  prayer,  O  Lord  Jehovah, 

Let  my  cry  come  unto  Thee; 

In  the  day  when  I’m  in  trouble, 

Hide  not  then  Thy  face  from  me; 
Lord,  incline  Thine  ear  unto  me, 

And  my  prayer  to  Thee  inspire; 
Answer,  Lord,  my  soul’s  entreaty, 

For  I  burn  amid  the  fire. 


Lo!  my  heart  is  sore  with  anguish, 
It  is  withered  like  the  grass, 

So  that  I  forget  my  table, 

And  my  blessings  as  they  pass; 
And  by  reason  of  my  groaning, 
All  my  bones  cleave  to  my  skin; 
Like  the  birds  that  lonely  wander, 
Is  my  troubled  soul  within. 


I  am  like  the  lonely  sparrow 

On  the  house-top  watching  there; 

All  day  long  my  foes  reproach  me, 

They  in  wrath  upon  me  stare; 

For  like  bread  I’ve  eaten  ashes, 

And  ’mid  tears  have  held  my  cup; 
For  Thy  righteous  wrath  hath  felled  me, 
Whom  Thy  love  had  lifted  up. 


180 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Now  my  days  are  like  a  shadow 
That  seems  changing  into  night; 

Like  the  grass  my  hopes  are  withered ; 
Vanished  is  each  fond  delight. 

But  O  Lord,  1  still  remember, 

Thou  for  ever  shall  endure, 

And  Thy  tokens  of  remembrance, 
Are  to  coming  ages  sure. 

Lord,  Thou  wilt  arise  for  Zion, 

And  Thy  mercy  on  her  pour; 

For  the  time  to  show  her  favor, 

Now  is  come  as  ne’er  before; 

For  Thy  servants  all  take  pleasure 
In  her  stones,  to  build  her  walls; 

At  Thy  name  the  heathen  tremble, 

It  the  kings  of  earth  appalls. 

When  the  Lord  shall  build  up  Zion, 
In  His  glory  He’ll  appear, 

And  the  lowliest  petition 
Of  the  destitute  will  hear. 

This,  for  coming  generations, 

Shall  be  written  in  His  word, 

That  His  own,  not  yet  created, 

In  their  time  shall  serve  the  Lord. 

From  the  highest  heights  of  Heaven, 
Did  the  Lord  the  earth  behold ; 

Heard  the  groaning  of  the  captive, 
Did  the  bands  of  death  unfold; 

Showed  the  name  of  God  in  Zion, 
And  in  Zion  showed  His  praise, 

When  His  own  of  ev’ry  kingdom 
Shall  Him  serve  in  later  days. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


181 


In  the  way  my  strength  He  weakened, 
Till  I  cried  amid  my  tears: 

Call  me  not  away,  nor  shorten 
Thus  my  few  allotted  years. 

Thou  of  old  laid  the  foundation 
Of  the  earth,  that  it  might  stand; 

And  the  countless  stars  of  heaven, 
Thou  hast  fashioned  with  Thy  hand. 

Thou’lt  endure,  but  they  shall  perish; 
All  their  course  shall  be  deranged; 

As  a  vesture  Thou  shalt  change  them, 
And  they  surely  shall  be  changed; 

But  Thou  art  the  same  forever, 

And  Thy  years  shall  have  no  end: 

All  the  coming  generations 
Shall  before  Thy  scepter  bend. 


PSALM  103 

O  bless  the  Lord,  my  grateful  soul; 

And  all  within  my  frame — 

My  heart,  my  mind,  my  strength,  my  all — 
Unite  to  bless  His  name. 

O  bless  the  Lord,  my  grateful  soul! 

His  benefits  recall, 

For  He  forgiveth  all  thy  sins, 

Heals  thy  diseases  all. 

From  death  redeemeth  thy  frail  life, 

Y ea,  crowneth  thee  with  love, 

And  lets  His  tender  mercies  fall 
Upon  thee  from  above. 


182 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


He,  who  thy  mouth  doth  satisfy 
With  good  and  bounteous  things, 

So  that  thy  vigor  is  renewed 
To  mount  on  eagle  s  wings. 

He  righteousness  and  judgment  metes 
To  all  that  are  oppressed; 

To  Moses  He  His  ways  made  known, 
His  mighty  acts  confessed. 

He  merciful  and  gracious  is; 

To  anger  He  is  slow; 

He  will  not  always  chide;  but  we 
His  pardoning  grace  shall  know. 

He  hath  not  dealt  with  us  as  did 
Our  many  sins  deserve; 

Nor  for  our  gross  iniquities 
Full  punishment  reserve. 

As  far  as  does  the  heavenly  world 
Above  the  earthly  rise, 

So  great  His  mercies  are  to  His; 

No  blessing  He  denies. 

As  far  as  is  the  east  removed 
From  the  most  distant  west, 

So  far  our  wanderings  doth  He 
Forgive  at  our  request. 

Like  as  a  father  pitieth 
His  children,  ever  dear, 

So  doth  Jehovah  pity  them 
That  worship  Him  in  fear. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


183 


For  He  our  frame  doth  fully  know, 
Remembereth  we  are  dust; 

Perfection’s  not  expected  by 
A  God  so  wise  and  just. 

The  days  of  man  are  as  the  grass; 

Or  as  the  opening  flower; 

A  little  while  he  flourisheth, 

Then  fadeth  in  an  hour. 

For  the  kind  mercy  of  the  Lord, 
From  everlasting  is; 

To  everlasting  ’twill  descend 
On  children  that  are  His. 

On  such  as  keep  His  covenant, 

And  His  commandments  true, 

The  mercies  of  the  Lord  shall  fall, 

As  falls  the  early  dew. 

In  Heaven  hath  the  Lord  prepared 
His  everlasting  throne; 

His  kingdom  over  all  doth  rule; 

All  nations  are  His  own. 

Ye  angels  that  excel  in  strength, 

That  hearken  to  His  word, 

That  joy  to  do  His  least  commands, 
Bless  ye  the  gracious  Lord. 

O  bless  the  Lord,  ye  heavenly  hosts, 
That  do  the  saints  attend, 

And  fly  with  blessings  on  your  wings 
To  whom  He  doth  thee  send. 


184 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


All  works  of  His  in  ev’ry  place, 

Bless  ye  the  Lord  always: 

And  bless  the  Lord,  my  grateful  soul, 
Through  all  thy  coming  days. 

PSALM  104 

My  soul,  bless  thou  the  Lord! 

Jehovah,  Thou  art  great; 

With  honor  Thou  art  clothed, 

And  rich  is  Thy  estate. 

Who  coverest  Thyself 

With  light,  as  with  a  robe; 

Who  stretchest  out  the  heavens, 

A  vail  across  the  globe. 

Whose  beams  in  waters  deep, 

A  sure  foundation  find; 

Who  rides  upon  the  clouds, 

And  walks  upon  the  wind. 

His  angels  spirits  are 
To  do  His  holy  will; 

His  ministers,  a  fire 

His  message  to  fulfill. 

Lord,  Thou  didst  form  the  earth, 

That  it  should  not  be  moved; 

The  wonders  Thou  hast  done, 

In  countless  ways  are  proved. 

The  earth  Thou  didst  submerge 
In  rushing  waters  deep; 

And  silence  reigned  o’er  all, 

Like  nature  lost  in  sleep. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


185 


The  waters  heard  Thy  voice; 

At  Thy  rebuke  they  fled; 

In  rivers  and  in  streams 

They  went  where  they  were  led. 

Thou  didst  their  channels  form, 
And  set  for  them  a  bound; 

So  that  the  earth  may  not 
Again  by  them  be  drowned. 

Thou  sendest  forth  the  springs 
Among  the  valleys  green; 

Their  waters,  flowing  clear, 

Among  the  hills  are  seen. 

The  beasts  of  ev’ry  kind 

Quench  there  their  ardent  thirst, 

And  quiet  lie  near  where 
The  cooling  waters  burst. 

Thou  waterest  the  hills 

From  Thy  abundant  store; 

The  earth  is  satisfied, 

Nor  parched  is  as  before. 

That  cattle  may  be  fed, 

God  makes  the  grass  to  spring; 

And  herbs  and  roots  for  man, 

He  from  the  ground  doth  bring. 

And  olive  oil  that  makes 
The  face  of  man  to  shine; 

And  bread  to  strengthen  him, — 

All  these  are  gifts  divine. 


186 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


The  trees  are  full  of  sap,— 

Trees  God  hath  planted  there; 

In  them  the  birds  make  nests, 

Their  music  fills  the  air. 

The  hills  a  refuge  are 

For  all  the  goats  untamed; 

The  conies,  mong  the  rocks, 

A  resting  place  have  claimed. 

The  seasons  He  hath  set, 

The  moon  doth  wax  and  wane; 

The  sun  goes  down,  but  morn 
Brings  brilliance  in  its  train. 

When  shades  of  night  appear, 

The  beasts  of  prey  come  out, 

And  in  their  quest  for  food, 

Prowl  searchingly  about. 

But  when  the  sun  comes  forth, 
They  hasten  them  away, 

And  in  their  hidden  dens 

Sleep  through  the  brilliant  day. 

Man — in  God’s  image  made — 
Doth  labor  in  the  light; 

He  through  the  day  doth  work, 
And  seeks  his  rest  at  night. 

O  Lord,  how  manifold 

Thy  wondrous  works  appear! 

In  wisdom  Thou  hast  made 
These  marvels  far  and  near. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


187 


The  earth,  O  Lord,  is  full 
Of  all  Thy  riches  rare; 

The  sea  her  treasures  gives 
In  a  collection  fair. 

And  thither  go  the  ships, 

In  waters  rough  or  clear; 

The  great  leviathan 

Plays  there  without  a  fear. 

These  all  do  wait  on  Thee, 

That  Thou  mayst  give  them  meat ; 

Thou  openest  Thy  hand, — 

With  gratitude  they  eat. 

Thou  hidest  then  Thy  face. 

And  they  in  trouble  lie, 

Thou  takest  then  their  breath, 

And  they  in  silence  die. 

Thy  spirit  Thou  dost  send; 

They’re  recreated  then: 

The  face  of  all  the  earth 
Thou  dost  renew  again. 

The  glory  of  the  Lord 
Forever  shall  endure; 

The  works  that  He  hath  made, 

Are  perfect  works  and  pure. 

He  looked  upon  the  earth, 

It  trembled  when  He  spoke; 

He  touched  the  hills,  and  they 
Emitted  flame  and  smoke. 


188 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


I'll  sing  unto  the  Lord 
As  long  as  I  shall  live; 

And  praises  to  my  God, 

While  life  remains,  I’ll  give. 

My  thoughts  of  Him  shall  be 
Most  grateful  and  most  sweet; 

In  Him  I  shall  be  glad 
And  worship  at  His  feet. 

Let  sinners  be  consumed; 

Consumed  be  wicked  men, 

But  Thou,  my  soul,  bless  God: 

Praise  ye  the  Lord.  Amen. 

PSALM  105 

Give  thanks  unto  the  Lord, 

And  call  upon  His  name; 

Make  known  His  mighty  works, 

And  all  His  deeds  proclaim; 

Sing  unto  Him,  in  anthems  sing, 

Accounts  of  all  His  marvels  bring. 

In  His  great  name  give  praise, 

And  let  each  heart  rejoice; 

All  ye  that  seek  the  Lord, 

Praise  Him  with  thankful  voice: 

Seek  ye  the  Lord,  and  Him  adore; 

Seek  ye  the  Lord  for  evermore. 

His  wondrous  works  recall, 

The  marvels  He  hath  done; 

The  judgments  of  His  mouth, 

Recount  them  one  by  one: 

O  seed  of  Abraham,  make  known 

The  strange  right  way  He  led  His  own. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


189 


He  is  the  Lord,  our  God; 

His  judgments  wise  prevail; 
His  covenant  He  keeps, 

Naught  can  its  truth  assail; 
The  Lord  shall  it  remember  well, 
Of  it  shall  Jacob’s  children  tell. 


The  covenant  He  made 

With  our  forefathers  there, 

Affirming  that  each  one 

Should  have  his  rightful  share, 

And  said:  To  thee  I  give  this  land, 

As  your  inheritance  ’twill  stand. 

They  few  in  numbers  were, 

They  strangers  were,  and  weak; 

They  were  compelled  at  times 
A  home  elsewhere  to  seek; 

Yea,  in  a  nation  far  removed, 

The  faith  of  Jacob’s  seed  was  proved. 

God  suffered  then  no  man 
To  do  His  people  harm; 

Yea,  kings  the  Lord  rebuked, 

And  brake  their  lifted  arm: 

Touch  not  My  children,  said  the  Lord, 
Nor  ’gainst  My  prophets  lift  the  sword. 

God  called  a  famine  down 
Upon  the  stricken  land; 

He  brake  the  staff  of  life 
By  His  reproving  hand; 

But  one — a  brother — went  before, 

And  opened  wide  a  garnered  store. 


190 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


This  brother  had  been  sold 
To  Egypt  as  a  slave, 

And  was  in  prison  cast, 

As  in  a  living  grave, 

And  languished  there  for  months  and  years, 
A  victim  held  by  doubts  and  fears. 


At  last,  the  full  time  came 
That  he  should  be  set  free; 

And  Egypt’s  king  gave  word 
That  he  would  Joseph  see: 

He  made  him  ruler  of  the  land, 

And  gave  the  laws  into  his  hand. 

Then,  Jacob,  also,  came 
To  Egypt  and  remained; 

His  people,  God  increased, 

His  favor,  they  retained: 

He  made  them  stronger  than  their  foes, 

Who,  in  their  wrath,  against  them  rose. 

Jehovah  Moses  sent, 

To  be  their  help  and  guide; 

At  God’s  command  he  came, 

With  Aaron,  to  reside: 

They  showed  God’s  signs  to  Pharaoh, 

That  he  should  let  His  people  go. 

He  darkness  sent  and  made 
The  land  a  midnight  hue; 

The  waters  turned  to  blood; 

The  fish  in  them  He  slew; 

Frogs  in  abundance  He  did  bring, 

E’en  to  the  chamber  of  the  king. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


191 


He  spake,  and  there  came  flies; 

Lice  did  the  coasts  invade; 

He  gave  them  hail  for  rain, 

And  flames  of  fire  made; 

He  smote  their  fig  trees  and  their  vines, 
And  brake  the  trees,  in  these  great  signs. 


He  spake,  and  locusts  came, 

In  numbers  great  were  found; 

They  all  the  herbs  and  fruit 
Devoured  off  the  ground; 

He  also  smote  all  the  first-born, 

And  hearts  with  grief  were  crushed  and  torn. 

His  people  He  brought  forth 
With  silver  and  with  gold; 

No  one  was  feeble  there, 

None  was  there  that  seemed  old: 

Egypt  them  hasted  on  their  way; 

They  feared  to  have  them  longer  stay. 

God  o’er  His  people  spread 
A  cloud  throughout  the  day; 

At  night  a  flame  of  fire 

Led  them  upon  the  way: 

Dissatisfied,  they  asked  for  meat, 

And  quails,  unblessed,  they  had  to  eat. 

He  gave  them  heavenly  food, 

Sweet  manna  from  the  ground; 

He,  from  the  solid  rock, 

Made  waters  flow  around: 

Their  cravings  all  were  satisfied, 

No  real  good  were  they  denied. 


192 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


For  He  remembered  well 
His  promises  of  old, 

How  He  His  children  would 
In  pastures  rich  enfold: 

He  brought  His  people  forth  with  joy; 
They  did  in  praise  glad  songs  employ. 


He  gave  to  them  the  lands 

That  heathen  tribes  had  tilled ; 

With  ripened  fruit  and  grain, 

Their  barns  and  stores  were  filled, 
So  that  they  might  with  one  accord 
His  statutes  keep.  Praise  ye  the  Lord. 


PSALM  106 

Praise  ye  the  Lord  Jehovah; 

Give  thanks  unto  His  name, 
For  He  is  good,  His  mercy 
Is  evermore  the  same. 

Who,  who  of  men  can  utter 
The  mighty  acts  of  God? 

Or  who  show  forth  His  praises, 
And  sing  beneath  His  rod? 


Thrice  blessed  are  the  righteous 
That  keep  a  judgment  true, 
And  he  that  doeth  justly, 

And  doth  his  pledge  renew. 

O  Lord,  with  the  rich  favor 
Thou  to  Thine  own  doth  show, 
I  pray  that  on  Thy  servant 

Thou  wouldst  a  part  bestow. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


193 


That  I  among  Thy  chosen, 

May  see  alone  their  good; 

And  praise  Thy  name  with  gladness, 
And  feast  on  angels*  food. 

Alas!  like  all  our  fathers, 

We’  ve  sinned  in  Thy  pure  sight, 

And  wandered  from  the  pathway 
‘  Wherein  alone  is  light. 

They  soon  forgot  the  wonders 
In  Egypt  for  them  wrought; 

Thy  multitude  of  mercies 

Soon  passed  from  out  their  thought: 

But  God  in  pity  saved  them, 

E’en  for  His  own  name’s  sake; 

The  waters  deep  He  parted, 

A  way  for  them  to  make. 

He  saved  them  from  the  clutches 
Of  him  who  did  them  hate ; 

He  from  their  foes  redeemed  them 
Before  it  was  too  late: 

The  waves  their  foes  did  cover, 

Not  one  of  them  was  left; 

And  Egypt’s  haughty  nation 

*  Was  of  her  hosts  bereft. 

Then  did  God’s  children  praise  Him 
With  timbrel  and  with  song; 

And  in  His  word  rejoicing, 

Were  in  His  strength  made  strong. 

Alas!  as  they  went  forward 
They  soon  His  words  forgot; 

They  for  the  world’s  good,  lusted, 

Nor  for  God’s  counsel  sought. 


194 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


He  gave  them  their  desire,  but 
Sent  leanness  to  the  soul; 

Sin,  like  a  sweetened  morsel, 

They  ’neath  their  tongues  did  roll. 

God’s  saints  they  viewed  with  envy, 

And  would  not  them  obey: 

The  earth  was  made  to  open 
And  all  these  rebels  slay. 

A  fire,  too,  was  kindled, 

The  wicked  ones  to  burn — 

O  sinful  men  take  warning, 

And  from  your  evil  turn — 

They  made  a  golden  image, 

And  worshipped  it  in  praise, 

Thus  putting  by  God’s  glory, 

An  idol  dumb  to  raise. 

The  Lord,  their  God  and  Saviour, 

They  wickedly  forgot ; 

He  that  for  them  in  Egypt, 

Such  wondrous  things  had  wrought; 

He  threatened  to  destroy  them, 

Because  of  this,  their  sin; 

But  Moses  interceded, 

God’s  pity  there  to  win. 

Yet  they  despised  God’s  blessings, 

And  would  not  trust  His  word; 

And  in  their  tents  they  murmured, 

Nor  heeded  they  the  Lord. 

Jehovah  then  reproved  them, 

To  bring  them  to  repent: 

They  were  among  the  nations 
In  scattered  portions  sent. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


195 


They  joined  themselves  to  Baal, 

And  no  more  worshipped  God; 

The  Lord  in  righteous  anger, 

Chastised  them  with  the  rod. 

Then  Phinehas,  arising, 

A  righteous  judgment  made 

Unto  those  great  transgressors, 

And  thus  the  plague  was  stayed. 

That,  unto  him,  was  counted 
For  righteousness  by  all, 

To  future  generations, 

That  did  these  things  recall. 

They,  at  the  dearth  of  waters, 

God’s  anger  did  provoke, 

And  it  went  ill  with  Moses, 

When  hastily  he  spoke. 

The  heathen  nations  near  them 
They  did  not  there  destroy, 

Though  ’gainst  them  God  had  told  them 
Their  weapons  to  employ. 

They  mingled  there  among  them, 

And  learned  their  evil  ways; 

They  knew  and  served  their  idols, 

And  offered  them  their  praise. 

They  brought  their  sons  and  daughters 
To  idols,  to  be  slain; 

And  the  fair  land  polluted 

With  blood,  recoiled  in  pain. 

Thus  were  they  all  defiled, 

Who  once  were  white  and  fair, 

And  God’s  fierce  wrath  was  kindled 
Against  His  people  there. 


196 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


He  gave  them  to  the  heathen, 

To  rule  them  in  the  land; 

Their  enemies  there  brought  them 
Subdued  beneath  their  hand. 

Oft  times  did  God  deliver 

His  own,  and  freedom  give, 

But  they  would  still  forsake  Him, 

Nor  in  His  service  live. 

But  still  the  Lord  had  pity, 

When  they  unto  Him  cried; 

And  he  recalled  His  promise, 

Nor  were  their  prayers  denied. 

He  made  them  to  be  pitied 

By  those  that  held  them  bound, 

And  these  poor,  erring  captives, 

A  kindness  in  them  found. 

Save  us,  O  Lord,  our  Saviour! 

Thy  banner  o’er  us  raise, 

That  we  return  with  shoutings, 

And  triumph  in  Thy  praise. 

Blest  be  the  Lord  Jehovah! 

Enduring  is  His  word: 

Shout,  all  ye  saints,  repeating, 

Amen.  Praise  ye  the  Lord. 

PSALM  107 

O  give  thanks  unto  the  Lord, 

For  His  mercy  hath  no  end; 

Let  the  righteous  this  record, 

That  God  will  His  own  defend, 

And  hath  gathered  out  of  lands, 
Scattered  far  from  east  to  west; 

Yea,  from  north  and  south  His  hands 
Gathered  saints  at  their  request. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


197 


Long  they  in  the  wilderness 
Wandered  in  a  lonely  way; 

Where  they  found  in  their  distress 
No  safe  place  in  which  to  stay: 

Hungry,  thirsty,  on  they  plod, 

Till  their  soul  within  them  faints; 

Then  in  prayer  they  cried  to  God, 

And  He  answered  their  complaints. 

Them  He  led  in  a  right  way, 

To  a  habitation  sure; 

To  a  land  where  they  might  stay, 

Him  to  serve  with  purpose  pure: 

Oh!  that  men  would  praise  the  Lord, 

For  His  goodness  and  His  grace; 

And  His  wondrous  works  record, 

Done  to  save  His  fallen  race. 

For  the  Lord  doth  satisfy 

Ev’ry  helpless,  longing  saint; 

Grace  He  hath  that  will  supply 
Ev’ry  need  and  each  complaint. 

Such  as  do  in  darkness  sit, 

With  the  shades  of  death  around, 

And  in  quietude  submit 

To  the  chains  by  which  they’re  bound. 

Then  they  cried  unto  the  Lord — 

In  their  trouble  Him  they  sought — 

Help  to  them  He  did  afford, 

They  to  safety  soon  were  brought. 

Oh!  that  men  would  praise  the  Lord 
For  His  goodness  and  His  grace; 

And  His  wondrous  works  record, 

Done  to  save  His  fallen  race. 


198 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Let  them  sacrifice  with  joy, 

What  unto  the  Lord  belongs, 

And  in  praise  their  tongues  employ, 
Showing  forth  His  works  in  songs. 
They  that  in  the  sea  go  down, 

In  great  ships  their  vigils  keep, — 
These  behold  how  God  doth  crown 
The  great  wonders  of  the  deep. 

Yea,  He  doth  command  the  wind, 
And  the  storm  lifts  up  the  waves, 
They  ascend  the  clouds  to  find, 

Then  sink  low  in  hollowed  graves. 
Men,  afraid,  reel  to  and  fro; 

Life  for  them  seems  at  an  end — 
Then  their  trust  on  God  they  throw 
And  He  doth  deliverance  send. 

He  doth  bid  the  storm  recede, 

And  the  raging  waves  are  still; 

Them  in  safety  He  doth  lead 
To  their  haven  by  His  will — 

Oh!  that  men  would  praise  the  Lord 
For  His  goodness  and  His  grace, 

And  His  wondrous  works  record, 

Done  to  save  His  fallen  race. 

Him  let  them  exalt  and  praise 
In  the  congregation  vast; 

And  His  standards  let  them  raise, 

And  their  gifts  before  Him  cast. 

In  the  wilderness  He  turns 
Living  waters  running  clear, 

Life  revives  where  nature  burns, 

When  these  flowing  springs  appear. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


199 


Then,  again,  the  wilderness 
He  converts  into  a  pool, 

And  the  ground,  parched  with  distress, 
He  with  water-springs  makes  cool; 

There  He  lets  the  hungry  dwell, 

And  a  habitation  find, 

Sow  their  seeds  and  vineyards  tell, 

And  earth’s  products  safely  bind. 

God  doth  bless  them  in  their  ways, 
And  their  numbers  still  increase; 

He  their  herd  from  evil  stays, 

That  their  cattle  may  not  cease. 

Yet,  again,  they  weakened  are, 

And  through  sorrow  are  brought  low; 

By  oppression  banished  far, 

They  life’s  dark  afflictions  know. 

God  on  princes  pours  contempt 
And  doth  let  them  go  astray, 

But  the  poor  He  doth  exempt 
From  the  evils  of  the  way; 

He  doth  give  them  riches  true, 

Families  to  bless  his  name, — 

Heaven’s  riches,  like  the  dew, 

God’s  rich  favors  now  proclaim. 

This,  believing  saints  shall  see; 

They  shall  see  it  and  rejoice; 

Then  shall  all  iniquity 

Silent  be  in  act  and  voice: 

He  that  can  observe  God’s  hand 
In  these  things  and  them  record, 

He  it  is  shall  understand 
All  the  kindness  of  the  Lord. 


200 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


PSALM  108 

O  God,  my  heart  is  fixed  in  Thee; 

To  Thee  I’ll  sing,  Thee  will  I  praise; 
With  psaltery  and  harp  shall  I 

At  early  morn  sweet  music  raise. 

Thee  will  I  praise,  Jehovah  Lord, 

Among  the  people  gathered  here; 

To  Thee  I  will  Thy  praises  sing 
Among  the  nations  far  and  near. 

Because,  O  Lord,  Thy  mercy  is 

So  great;  it  doth  to  Heaven  reach; 

Thy  truth  extends  unto  the  clouds, 

And  doth  our  darkened  natures  teach. 

Be  Thou  exalted,  Lord,  beyond 
The  heavens ;  let  Thy  glory  rise 
O’er  all  the  earth,  that  Thy  beloved 
May  rescued  be  before  Thine  eyes. 

Hear,  Lord,  and  answer  Thou  my  prayer, 
And  lift  for  me  Thy  strong  right  hand, 
So  shall  my  soul  rejoice,  and  I 

Shall,  with  Thy  help,  divide  the  land. 

God  hath  in  mercy  answered  me: 

I,  Shechem  shall  with  joy  divide; 

I  shall  mete  out,  with  help  divine, 

The  vale  of  Succoth,  fair  and  wide. 

Manasseh,  Gilead,  Thou  hast, 

O  Lord  Jehovah,  given  me; 

In  Ephraim  is  found  my  strength; 

My  lawgiver  shall  Judah  be. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


201 


In  Moab  I  my  washpot  find; 

O’er  Edom  will  I  cast  my  shoe; 

Philistia  will  I  triumph  o’er, — 

All  these  shall  be  my  subjects  true. 

Who’ll  bring  us  to  the  city  strong? 
Who  will  me  into  Edom  lead? 

Lord,  wilt  not  Thou  go  with  our  hosts, 
And  succor  give  in  our  great  need? 

O  give  us  help  from  trouble,  Lord, 

For  ev’ry  help  of  man  is  vain: 

Through  God  we  shall  do  valiantly, — 
He  will  for  us  the  vict’ry  gain. 

PSALM  109 

Hold  not  Thy  peace,  O  God, 

For  wicked  men  assail; 

And  tongues  deceitful  do 
In  wrath  against  me  rail; 

They  compassed  me  about 
With  words  of  bitter  hate; 

And  they  against  me  fought, 

Nor  cause  could  they  relate. 

They,  for  my  love  sincere, 

My  bitter  foes  became: 

But  I  resort  to  prayer, 

Their  friendship  to  reclaim. 

They  have  rewarded  me 
But  ill  for  all  my  good; 

And  hatred  for  my  love 
Has  long  been  understood. 


202 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Set,  Lord,  a  wicked  man, 

Above  him  to  command, 

And  there  let  Satan  be 

The  guide  at  his  right  hand; 

When  he  for  judgment  waits, 
Condemned  then  let  him  be; 

His  prayer,  let  it  be  sin, 

Nor  favor  let  him  see. 

His  days,  let  them  be  few; 

His  place,  let  others  take; 

His  children,  fatherless; 

His  wife,  a  widow  make; 

His  children,  let  them  beg, 
And  seek  their  daily  bread; 

In  places  desolate, 

May  they  on  crumbs  be  fed. 

Let  the  extortioner 

Catch  everything  he  hath; 

And  let  the  strangers  spoil 
His  labor  in  their  wrath; 

Let  there  be  none  to  show 
To  him  a  mercy  kind; 

Nor  any  favor  let 

His  orphaned  children  find. 

Let  his  posterity 

No  more  on  earth  remain; 

And  haste  the  time  when  shall 
Be  blotted  out  their  name. 

Remember,  Lord,  the  sins 
His  father  did  of  old; 

Let  not  his  mother’s  sins 
Cease  ever  to  be  told. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


203 


Let  them  forever  be 

Before  the  Lord  on  high, 

That  He,  for  evils  done, 

Will  make  their  mem’ry  die; 

For  he  remembered  not 
A  mercy  kind  to  show, 

But  persecuted  still, 

The  needy  and  the  low. 

As  he  loved  cursing,  so 
Let  cursing  be  his  lot; 

He  loved  not  blessing, — let 
No  good  to  him  be  brought. 

Let  this  be  the  reward 

That  God  o’er  all  shall  roll, 

Who  evil  speak  against 

My  crushed  and  troubled  soul. 

But,  Lord,  do  Thou  for  me, 

E’en  for  Thine  own  name’s  sake; 

Thy  pity,  Lord,  is  kind, 

Let  it  for  me  awake; 

For  I,  O  Lord,  am  poor, 

And  wounded  is  my  heart; 

I,  like  a  shadow,  fall 
In  broken  lines  apart. 

Through  fasting  I  am  weak; 

My  flesh  and  strength  have  fled; 

To  men  I’m  a  reproach, 

They  look,  and  shake  the  head. 

Help  me,  O  Lord,  my  God; 

Me,  in  Thy  mercy,  save, 

That  they  may  know  ’twas  Thou 
That  plucked  me  from  the  grave. 


204 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Then  let  them  curse  that  will; 
But  bless  Thou  me,  O  Lord; 

Let  them  be  brought  to  shame, 

But  joy  to  me  accord; 

Yea,  let  all  these,  my  foes, 

With  shame  be  covered  o’er; 

In  their  confusion  deep, 

Let  them  be  seen  no  more. 

But  I  will  greatly  praise 

The  Lord  with  speech  and  song; 

Yea,  Him  I’ll  boldly  praise 
Among  the  surging  throng; 

For  He  will  stand  beside 
The  poor,  and  him  befriend; 

In  ev’ry  time  of  need 

He  will  deliverance  send. 


PSALM  1 1 0 

The  Lord  said  to  my  Lord, 

Sit  Thou  at  my  right  hand, 

Until  I  make  Thine  enemies 
Subdued  before  Thee  stand. 

The  Lord  shall  out  of  Zion 
Send  forth  a  rod  of  strength; 

Rule,  Thou,  among  Thine  enemies 
To  earth's  remotest  length. 

Thine  own  shall  willing  be 

When  dawns  the  day  of  power: 

Lord,  hasten  that  glad  time,  we  pray, 
Speed,  speed  the  longed  for  hour. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


205 


In  holiness  shall  bloom 

The  morning  of  the  Lord; 

The  dew  of  youth  upon  Thee  rests, 
And  doth  new  life  afford. 


The  Lord  above  hath  sworn, 

Nor  will  He  yet  repent — 
Thou  art  a  priest  for  evermore, 
By  holy  orders  sent. 


The  Lord  at  Thy  right  hand 

The  strongest  kings  shall  spoil; 

When  He  in  wrath  shall  judge  the  earth, 
The  mighty  shall  recoil. 


The  heathen  He  shall  judge, 
And  multiply  their  dead; 

And  over  many  countries  He 
Shall  wound  the  ruling  head. 


The  thirsty  soul  shall  seek 
The  brook  along  the  way; 

To  drink  thereof  and  be  revived, 
His  feet  beside  it  stay. 


PSALM  1  1  1 

O  praise  the  Lord,  my  waiting  soul  [ 

Him  will  I  praise  with  all  my  heart: 
Where  true  believers  congregate, 

There  will  my  soul  in  praise  take  part. 


206 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Great  are  the  works  of  God,  the  Lord, 
Sought  out  by  all  that  love  His  praise; 

His  work  on  earth  is  glorious, 

His  righteousness  endures  always. 

His  works  of  wonder  He  hath  made 
To  be  remembered  for  all  time; 

The  Lord  is  gracious,  and  is  found 
Filled  with  compassion  all  sublime. 

He  giveth  meat  to  hungry  souls; 

He  feedeth  all  that  fear  His  name; 

His  covenant  He  ne’er  forgets, 

It  holds  for  evermore  the  same. 

The  power  of  His  mighty  works, 

He  hath  unto  His  people  shown, 

That  He  may  give  the  heritage 
Of  heathen  nations  to  His  own. 

His  works  are  verity  and  truth, 

And  His  commandments  all  are  sure; 

They  stand  forever  fast,  and  will 
Through  all  eternity  endure. 

In  mercy,  He  redemption  sent 
Unto  His  people  lost  in  sin, — 

Adored  forever  be  His  name, 

That  He  should  our  salvation  win. 

To  fear  the  Lord,  and  follow  Him, 

Is  the  first  step  in  wisdom’s  ways; 

O  wise  are  they  that  keep  His  laws! 

His  praise,  enduring,  with  them  stays. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


207 


PSALM  1 1 2 

Praise,  ye,  the  Lord  Jehovah! 

For  sure  that  man  is  blest, 

Who  fears  the  Lord  and  serves  Him, 
And  on  His  word  doth  rest : 

His  children  shall  grow  mighty, 

His  children’s  children  thrive; 

His  house  shall  have  true  riches, 

His  faith  be  kept  alive. 

A  light  unto  the  upright 

Doth  ’mid  the  darkness  rise, — 

God,  full  of  all  compassion, 

No  righteous  prayer  denies. 

A  good  man  showeth  favor, 

And  kindness  that  is  wide; 

He,  with  a  wise  discretion, 

His  own  affairs  doth  guide. 

He  shall  not  be  removed, 

But  shall  securely  stand; 

The  mem’ry  of  the  righteous 
Is  fixed  throughout  the  land. 

Of  any  evil  tidings, 

He  shall  not  be  afraid, 

Because  his  heart  is  trusting 
The  Lord,  and  on  Him  stayed. 

His  heart  is  well  established 
Nor  shall  he  know  a  fear; 

He  to  the  poor  hath  given 
His  riches  far  and  near: 

His  righteousness  forever. 

Shall  surely,  then,  endure; 

His  horn  shall  be  exalted, 

With  honor  that  is  pure. 


208 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


The  wicked  there  shall  see  it, 

And  filled  be  with  dismay ; 

He’ll  gnash  his  teeth  in  anguish, 
And  fall,  and  melt  away. 

The  longings  of  the  wicked, 

To  do  the  righteous  harm, 

Shall  soon  be  made  to  perish 
By  God’s  almighty  arm. 

PSALM  1 1 3 

Praise,  praise  the  Lord,  ye  saints ! 
His  name,  ye  people,  praise! 

Exalted  be  his  holy  name 

Through  all  the  coming  days. 

From  when  the  sun  doth  rise, 

Till  when  it  sinks  at  night, 

Let  praises  to  Jehovah’s  name 
Each  contrite  soul  delight. 

The  Lord  is  high  above 
All  nations  here  below; 

His  glory  is  above  the  heavens. 
And  light  o’er  all  doth  throw. 

Who,  who  is  like  the  Lord  9 
Who  can  with  him  compare, 

Who  humbled  low  himself,  that  he 
Our  earthly  state  might  share? 

He  raiseth  up  the  poor, 

And  lifteth  the  cast  down; 

E’en  from  the  dust  he  raiseth  him, 
To  place  on  him  a  crown. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


209 


He  makes  the  fruitless  vine 
Bear  clusters  to  his  name: 
For  all  his  goodness,  O  ye  saints, 
His  glory  now  proclaim. 


PSALM  1 1 4 

When  God’s  people  went  from  Egypt, 
And  the  house  of  Jacob  fled 
From  a  nation  of  strange  language, 
They  were  by  Jehovah  led. 

Judah  was  his  sanctuary, 

Israel  his  promised  land; 

They  unto  their  rich  possessions 

Guided  were  by  God’s  own  hand. 


There  the  sea  fled  back  before  them; 

Jordan,  too,  was  driven  back; 

Cloud  for  shelter,  light  to  guide  them, 

They  God’s  blessings  did  not  lack. 

There,  like  rams,  skipped  all  the  mountains, 
And  the  little  hills  like  lambs, — 

Thus  Jehovah,  for  His  people, 

Each  foreboding  quickly  calms. 


What  ailed  thee,  O  sea,  that  fledest? 

Jordan,  why  didst  thou  not  flow? 

Why  like  rams  skipped  all  the  mountains? 

And  ye  hills,  why  moved  ye  so? 

O  thou  solid  earth,  now  tremble 
At  the  presence  of  the  Lord! 

He  who  turned  the  rock  to  water 
By  the  power  of  His  word. 


210 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


PSALM  1  1  5 

Not  unto  us,  O  Lord, 

But  to  Thy  holy  name, 

Give  glory  for  Thy  mercy’s  sake; 

Thy  truth  and  grace  proclaim. 

Why  should  the  heathen  say: 

O  where  is  now  their  God? 

Our  God  is  in  the  heavens  high, 

And  ruleth  by  His  rod. 

Their  idols  are  but  forms 
Of  silver  and  of  gold; 

The  work  of  men’s  own  feeble  hands, 

No  strength  nor  life  they  hold. 

They’ve  mouths,  but  cannot  speak; 

Eyes  have  they,  but  no  sight; 

And  they  have  ears,  but  not  a  sound 
Doth  e’er  those  ears  delight. 

They’ve  noses,  but  smell  not; 

Lifeless  their  hands  do  lie; 

They’ve  feet,  but  they  walk  not;  no  speech 
Doth  pass  their  throttles  dry. 

The  men  that  made  them  are 
Like  unto  them,  but  dead; 

And  so  are  all  that  in  them  trust 
To  guided  be  or  fed. 

O  Israel  of  old! 

Trust,  trust  thou  in  the  Lord; 

He  is  thy  help  and  shield,  and  will 
A  help  divine  afford. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


211 


O  house  of  Aaron,  trust 
In  the  Almighty  King; 

He  is  thy  help,  and  He’s  thy  shield, 

He  will  salvation  bring. 

All  ye  that  fear  the  Lord, 

In  Him  put  all  your  trust; 

He  is  a  help  and  shield,  and  will 
Deliver  all  the  just. 

The  Lord  hath  ever  been 
Mindful  of  us  and  true; 

He’ll  bless  the  house  of  Israel, 

He’ll  Aaron  bless  anew. 

He’ll  bless  all  them  that  fear 

The  Lord — both  great  and  small — 

The  Lord  will  bless  you  more  and  more, 
You,  and  your  children  all. 

Ye  of  the  Lord  art  blest, — 

Blest  by  Jehovah  when 

He  had  the  heavens  for  His  abode, 

And  made  the  earth  for  men. 

The  dead  praise  not  the  Lord ; 

Nor  any  that  do  sleep 

In  darkness  down  within  the  tomb, 
Amid  the  silence  deep. 

But  we  will  bless  our  God; 

And  praise  to  Him  accord; 

From  this  time  forth  and  evermore, 
Praise,  praise,  ye  saints,  the  Lord. 


212 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


PSALM  1 1 6 

I  love  the  Lord  because 

He  hath  my  pleadings  heard: 

Because  oftimes  they  have 
His  heart  of  pity  stirred; 

Because  He  hath  inclined 
His  list’ning  ear  to  me, 

His  loving  suppliant 
I  ever  more  shall  be. 

Death’s  sorrows  round  me  pressed; 
The  pains  of  hell  I  felt. 

Then  cried  I  to  the  Lord, 

As  I  before  Him  knelt: 

O  Lord,  I  Thee  beseech, 

These  terrors  from  me  roll; 

Let  Thine  own  comfort  reach 
My  tossed  and  troubled  soul. 

How  gracious  is  the  Lord! 

How  merciful  our  God! 

He  chastens  for  our  good, 

Then  stays  His  lifted  rod. 

He  hath  me  always  helped 

When  I  have  been  brought  low, 

And  I,  through  all  His  acts, 

His  loving-kindness  know. 

Return  unto  thy  rest, 

My  soul,  from  sin  set  free, 

The  Lord  hath  ever  dealt 

Most  graciously  with  thee. 

Thou  hast  delivered,  Lord, 

My  soul  from  death,  mine  eyes 

From  tears  are  free,  my  feet 
Halt  not  when  snares  arise. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


213 


1*11  walk  before  the  Lord 

Where  all  the  world  may  see; 

Yea,  I  throughout  the  land 
His  witness  true  shall  be. 

I  was  afflicted  sore, 

And  in  my  haste  made  speech: 

"All  men  are  prone  to  lie, 

When  they  their  ends  would  reach.* * 

What  shall  I  render  now 
Unto  the  Lord  above, 

For  all  His  gifts  bestowed, 

And  His  undying  love? 

My  hand  will  take  the  cup 
Of  His  salvation  free; 

I’ll  call  upon  His  name, 

I’ll  His  disciple  be. 

I  now  will  pay  my  vows 
Unto  the  Lord  Most  High ; 

Before  the  people  all 

I  will  to  Him  draw  nigh. 

How  precious  in  God’s  sight, 

The  death  of  ev’ry  saint! 

Their  welcome  to  His  home, 

No  fancy  e’er  can  paint. 

O  Lord,  I  truly  am 

Thy  servant  and  Thy  child ; 

Thou  hast  loosed  all  my  bonds, 

And  cleansed  a  soul  defiled. 

To  Thee  I’ll  gladly  give 
A  sacrifice  of  praise; 

I’ll  call  upon  Thy  name, 

And  worship  Thee  always. 


214 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


I’ll  pay  my  vows  unto 
The  Lord  Jehovah  now; 
Before  His  people  I 

In  prayer  and  praise  will  bow; 
Yea,  in  His  courts  1  will 
His  majesty  record; 

In  thee,  Jerusalem, 

I’ll  bow.  Praise  ye  the  Lord. 


PSALM  1 1  7 

Ye  nations,  praise  the  Lord; 

Ye  people,  praise  His  name; 

His  benefits  to  all  recall, 

His  praise  to  all  proclaim. 

For  oh!  His  kindness  is 
So  great  toward  us  all; 

All  we  that  serve  Him  and  are  His, 

In  praise  before  Him  fall. 

His  truth  shall  ever  stand, 

And  shall  us  help  afford ; 

Shout!  shout!  ye  saints,  throughout  the  land, 
And  praise!  praise  ye  the  Lord. 


PSALM  118 

Oh!  render  thanks  unto  the  Lord, 
For  He  is  good,  true  is  His  word; 

His  mercy  lasts  for  aye; 

Let  Israel  the  same  repeat; 

And  still  before  God’s  mercy  seat, 
The  same  let  Aaron  say. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


215 


Let  them  that  fear  the  Lord  proclaim, 
His  mercy  always  is  the  same, 
Enduring,  changeless,  free. 

I  sought  the  Lord  in  my  distress, 

My  plea  I  did  upon  Him  press, 

And  He  hath  answered  me. 


Because  the  Lord  is  on  my  side, 

I  will  not  fear  what  may  betide, 

Or  what  frail  man  can  do; 

The  Lord  doth  take  my  part  and  He 
My  friend  and  Helper  sure  will  be, 
And  my  desire  renew. 

It  better  is  to  trust  the  Lord, 

Than  trust  in  man,  help  to  afford, 

In  times  of  sore  dismay, 

*Tis  better  in  the  Lord  to  trust, 

Than  in  frail  man,  however  just, 

To  look  for  help  that  day. 

All  nations  compassed  me  about 
But  with  God’s  help  I  will  them  rout, 
And  will  them  all  destroy, 

They  compassed  me  about,  but  I 
Will  look  for  help  to  God  on  high, 

His  aid  will  I  employ. 

They  compassed  me  about  like  bees, 
But  scattered  as  by  fire  were  these— 
Defeat  they  all  did  share: 
They  struck  at  me,  that  I  might  fall, 
But  God  hath  heard  my  earnest  call, 
And  He  hath  helped  me  there. 


216 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Jehovah  is  my  strength  and  song; 
The  Lord  is  my  salvation  strong, 
Therefore  I  shall  rejoice; 

Yea,  in  the  tabernacle  I 
Will  to  the  Lord  of  hosts  draw  nigh 
With  glad  exultant  voice. 


All  valiantly  doth  God’s  right  hand 
His  marvels  do  throughout  the  land ; 

It  is  exalted  there: 

And  now  shall  I  not  die,  but  live, 

And  all  my  strength  and  powers  give, 

His  glory  to  declare. 

The  Lord  hath  chastened  me  full  sore, 

And  brought  me  near  unto  death’s  door, 
But  did  me  there  reprieve: 

The  gates  of  righteousness  undo, 

And  let  my  waiting  soul  pass  through, 
Salvation  to  receive. 

I’ll  enter  them  with  joy  and  praise — 
These  gates  that  lead  to  heavenly  ways — 
Thronged  with  the  pure  in  heart: 
Thee  will  I  praise;  Thou  didst  me  hear, 
And  brought  Thy  great  salvation  near — 
Thou  my  Salvation  art. 

The  stone  the  builders  long  denied, 

Is  now  the  head-stone,  sanctified, 

Its  finished  mission  done: 

All  glorious  it  doth  arise, 

And  marvelous  before  our  eyes, 

God’s  own  beloved  son. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


217 


This  is  the  day  the  Lord  hath  made, 

And  our  redemption  fully  paid ; 

In  it  we  shall  rejoice: 

Save  now,  O  Lord,  I  Thee  beseech, 

To  all  let  Thy  salvation  reach, 

Who  hear  Thy  loving  voice. 

Thrice  blessed  He  that  cometh  now; 

Ye  waiting  hosts  before  Him  bow, 

And  shout  aloud  His  name: 

God  is  the  Lord  who  showed  us  light, 
We’ll  sacrifice  before  His  sight, 

And  His  redemption  claim. 

Thou  art  my  God;  Thee  will  I  praise; 
Thou  art  my  God  through  endless  days, 
Thee  I’ll  exalt  on  high: 

Give  thanks  unto  the  Lord  our  God, 

For  He  is  good;  kind  is  His  rod; 

To  help  us  He  is  nigh. 

PSALM  1 1 9 

n  ALEPH 

How  blessed  are  the  undefiled, 

In  life’s  uncertain  way, 

Who  walk  within  God’s  holy  law, 

Nor  from  His  precepts  stray. 

Thrice  blest  are  they  that  always  keep 
His  testimonies  true; 

That  follow  Him  with  all  the  heart, 

And  His  commandments  do. 

They  also  no  iniquity 
Do  practice,  but  they  try 
To  walk  in  God’s  most  righteous  ways, 
And  serve  with  single  eye. 


218 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Thou  hast  commanded  us,  O  Lord, 

Thy  precepts  all  to  keep — 

O  that  my  ways  directed  were 
To  know  Thy  statutes  deep. 

Then  shall  I  never  be  ashamed, 

When  I  have  due  respect 

Unto  Thy  just  commandments,  Lord, 
Nor  do  Thy  laws  neglect. 

Thee  will  1  praise  with  upright  heart, 
When  I  Thy  truth  have  learned — 

To  understand  Thy  judgments,  Lord, 
My  soul  hath  often  yearned. 

Thy  holy  statutes  I  will  keep; 

Forsake  me  not,  1  pray; 

Be  Thou  my  guard  and  my  defence 
Through  life’s  uneven  way. 

3  BETH 

How  shall  a  young  man  cleanse  his  way 
And  shun  the  paths  of  sin? 

By  taking  heed  unto  Thy  word, 

And  truths  inscribed  therein. 

Thee  have  I  sought  with  all  my  heart; 
Lord,  let  me  never  stray; 

From  Thy  commandments  let  me  not 
Depart  by  night  or  day. 

Thy  Word  Fve  hidden  in  my  breast, 

So  that  I  might  not  fall: 

How  blessed  art  Thou  to  incline 
My  heart  to  hear  Thy  call. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


219 


I  with  my  lips  have  long  declared 
The  judgments  of  Thy  Word; 

And  F  ve  rejoiced  along  the  way, 

As  1  Thy  truths  have  heard. 

I  in  Thy  holy  precepts  will 
Now  meditate  and  pray; 

I’ll  have  respect  unto  Thy  laws, 

And  follow  in  Thy  way. 

In  all  Thy  righteous  statutes,  I 
Will  now  my  pleasure  take; 

Thy  Word  I  never  will  forget, 

Nor  Thy  commands  forsake. 

3  GIMEL 

Deal  freely  with  Thy  servant,  Lord, 
That  I  aright  may  live; 

Incline  mine  eyes,  that  I  may  see 
The  precepts  Thou  dost  give. 

Lo!  I'm  a  stranger  in  the  earth, 

Hide  not  Thy  law  from  me; 

My  soul  doth  break  with  longing  that 
It  may  Thy  judgments  see. 

Thou  hast  rebuked  the  proud  that  do 
From  Thy  commandments  stray: 

O  Lord,  remove  from  me  reproach; 
Thy  law  hath  been  my  stay. 

For  princes,  also,  sat  and  spake 
Against  me  in  the  gate; 

Thy  servant  in  Thy  statutes  then 
Did  stop  and  meditate. 


220 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Thy  testimonies  truly  are 
My  constant,  sure  delight; 

They  also  are  my  counsellors 
To  guide  my  steps  aright. 

u  DALETH 

My  soul  doth  cleave  unto  the  dust; 

Me  quicken  and  revive; 

According  to  Thy  holy  Word, 

Make  now  my  faith  alive. 

My  ways  I  have  declared,  O  Lord, 
And  Thou  hast  heard  my  prayer; 
Teach  me  Thy  statutes,  so  that  1 
Thy  blessed  truths  may  share. 

Make  me  to  understand  the  way 
Of  all  Thy  precepts,  Lord, 

So  shall  I  then,  with  thankful  heart, 
Thy  wondrous  works  record. 

My  soul  doth  melt  in  heaviness ; 

O  strengthen  me,  I  pray ; 

According  to  Thy  holy  Word, 
Uphold  me  in  the  way. 

Remove  afar  from  me  false  tongues; 

Thy  law  grant  unto  me: 

The  way  of  truth  I’ve  chosen  now, 
Thy  judgments  I  would  see. 

Unto  Thy  law  my  soul  hath  held, 

O  put  me  not  to  shame; 

All  Thy  commandments  I  will  keep, 
And  magnify  Thy  name. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


221 


n  HE 

Teach  me,  O  righteous  Lord,  the  way 
Of  all  Thy  statutes  true, 

And  I  will  keep  it  to  the  end, 

And  Thy  commandments  do. 

Give  understanding  unto  me, 

And  I  will  keep  Thy  law; 

It  I’ll  observe  with  all  my  heart 
And  comfort  from  it  draw. 

Make  me  to  walk  within  the  path 
Of  Thy  commandments  right — 

My  soul,  O  Lord,  would  seek  the  truth, 
Therein  is  my  delight. 

Unto  Thy  testimonies  true, 

My  heart,  O  Lord,  incline; 

Remove  me  far  from  selfishness, 

From  love  of  what  is  mine. 

Turn  Thou  mine  eyes  from  vanity; 

Me  quicken  in  the  way; 

Thy  Word  establish  in  my  heart, 

Be  it  my  guide  and  stay. 

Turn  from  me  that  reproach,  which  I 
Now  tremble  at  and  fear — 

But,  Lord,  Thy  judgments  all  are  good, 
If  they  but  bring  Thee  near. 

Behold,  O  Lord,  how  I  have  longed 
Thy  precepts  here  to  find: 

O  quicken  me  in  righteousness, 

Thy  law  about  me  bind. 


222 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


i  VAU 

Thy  tender  mercies,  let  them  come 
Unto  me  now,  O  Lord; 

And  Thy  salvation  may  I  have, 

According  to  Thy  Word. 

So  shall  I  have  wherewith  to  speak 
To  him  who  is  unjust; 

To  him  who  still  reproacheth  me, 

For  in  Thy  Word  I  trust. 

Take  not  Thy  Word  of  truth  away, 

But  let  me  it  declare; 

So  shall  I  keep  Thy  holy  law 
And  Thy  rich  blessings  share. 

And  I  will  walk  at  liberty, 

For  I  Thy  precepts  seek; 

I  of  Thy  testimonies  shall 
Before  high  rulers  speak. 

In  Thy  commandments,  Lord,  always 
I  will  myself  delight; 

Yea,  Thy  commandments,  that  Tve  loved, 
I  will  with  joy  recite. 

My  hands  also  I  will  lift  up 
Unto  Thy  holy  law; 

My  soul  from  Thy  pure  statutes  shall 
Sweet  meditations  draw. 

t  ZAIN 

Remember,  Lord,  Thy  former  word 
Unto  Thy  servant  now; 

That  which  hath  caused  my  soul  to  hope, 
As  I  before  Thee  bow. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


223 


In  my  affliction  this  doth  bring 
Me  comfort  and  support; 

Thy  Word  hath  quickened  me,  O  Lord; 
My  waywardness  cut  short. 

The  proud  have  long  derided  me — 

I  their  derision  saw  — 

Yet  have  I  not  declined  to  keep 
Thy  just  and  holy  law. 

Thy  judgments  I’ve  remembered  well, 
Thy  judgments  of  the  past, 

And  I  have  comforted  myself, 

And  unto  Thee  held  fast. 

Great  grief  hath  taken  hold  of  me, 
Because  of  those  that  stray; 

Of  those  that  do  forsake  Thy  law 
And  wander  from  the  way. 

Thy  statutes,  Lord,  have  been  my  song 
In  this  my  pilgrimage; 

Thy  law  I’ve  kept,  as  ’tis  inscribed 
Upon  the  sacred  page. 

Thee  I’ve  remembered  in  the  night, 
And  then  securely  slept — 

This  blessing,  Lord,  I  had  because 
Thy  precepts  I  had  kept. 

n  HETH 

Thou  art  my  portion,  O  my  God, 

And  I  have  truly  said 

That  I  would  keep  Thy  holy  words, 
And  by  Thy  law  be  led. 


224 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


With  my  whole  heart  Thy  favor  I 
Entreated  have  with  tears; 

Be  merciful  to  me,  O  Lord, 

And  banish  all  my  fears. 

I  thought  upon  my  ways  and  turned 
My  feet  unto  Thy  law; 

All  Thy  commandments  holy  are — 
They  did  Thy  servant  draw. 

The  wicked  have  me  robbed  ofttimes, 
But  I  Thy  law  possess; 

At  midnight  I  will  rise,  and  will 
With  thanks  Thy  throne  address. 

All  my  companions  are  of  them 
That  fear  Thy  holy  name; 

Of  them  that  keep  Thy  precepts,  and 
Thy  sacred  truth  proclaim. 

The  earth,  O  Lord,  is  full  of  all 
Thy  mercies  ever  kind; 

Teach  me  Thy  statutes;  and  Thy  law 
Around  Thy  servant  bind. 

a  TETH 

Thou  hast  in  kindness  dealt  with  me; 
Thou  hast  Thy  servant  led; 

According  to  Thy  word,  Thou  hast 
His  soul  with  manna  fed. 

Endow  me  with  good  judgment,  Lord, 
And  knowledge  teach  to  me; 

For  Thy  commandments  Tve  believed; 
I  will  Thy  servant  be. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


225 


Before  I  was  afflicted  I 
Oftimes  went  far  astray, 

But  since  I  now  have  kept  Thy  Word, 
Tve  followed  in  Thy  way. 

Lord,  Thou  art  good  and  doest  good, 
Teach  me  Thy  statutes  true; 

Help  me  to  understand  Thy  Word; 

My  faith  and  hope  renew. 

The  proud  have  lied  against  me,  and 
Against  me  taken  part; 

But  I  will  keep  Thy  precepts  with 
An  undivided  heart. 

Their  mind  with  worldliness  is  fat: 

I  in  Thy  law  delight ; 

’Tis  good  that  I’ve  afflicted  been, 

That  I  might  walk  aright. 

Thy  law,  it  better  is  for  me 
To  understand  and  hold, 

Than  wealth,  by  thousands  multiplied, 
Of  silver  and  of  gold. 

♦  JOD 

Thy  hands  have  made  and  fashioned  me 
As  Thou  wouldst  have  me  be; 

Give  to  me  understanding,  Lord, 

That  I  Thy  truth  may  see. 

All  they  that  fear  Thee  will  be  glad 
When  they  my  faith  perceive, 

Because  I’ve  trusted  in  the  Lord, 

And  do  His  Word  believe. 


t 


226 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


I  know,  O  Lord,  Thy  judgments  are 
All  righteousness  and  truth, 

And  that  in  faithfulness  I  was 
Afflicted  in  my  youth. 

\ 

Let  now  Thy  loving  kindness  be 
My  comfort  and  delight, 

And  let  Thy  tender  mercies  come 
To  cheer  me  in  the  night. 

Let  all  the  proud  be  well  ashamed, 

That  hurt  me  without  cause; 

But  I  will  meditate  upon 
Thy  just  and  holy  laws. 

Let  those  that  fear  Thee  turn  to  me, 

Those  that  Thy  laws  have  known; 

And  let  my  heart  be  always  sound 
In  statutes  Thou  hast  shown. 

3  CAPH 

For  Thy  salvation,  Lord,  my  soul 
Doth  faint  and  fall  away, 

But  in  Thy  Word  I  still  have  hope; 

It  is  my  trust  and  stay  . 

Mine  eyes  fail  for  Thy  Word,  O  Lord; 
When  wilt  Thou  comfort  me? 

My  faith  is  dim,  because  of  doubt, 

Yet  I  Thy  statutes  see. 

How  many  are  the  days,  O  Lord, 

That  I  shall  thus  be  tried? 

When  wilt  Thou  judgment  place  on  them 
That  do  my  name  deride? 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


227 


The  proud  have  digged  their  pits  for  me, 
Against  Thy  holy  law; 

They  persecute  me  wrongfully, 

And  would  me  from  Thee  draw. 


Help  me,  O  Lord,  and  be  my  strength; 

To  help  me,  now  awake! 

They  had  me  sorely  tried,  but  I 
Did  not  Thy  law  forsake. 


In  tender  mercy  quicken  me, 
And  raise  me  up  again ; 

So  shall  I  keep  Thy  holy  law, 
And  worship  Thee.  Amen. 


b  LAMED 

Thy  Word  doth  stand  forever,  Lord; 

’Tis  fixed,  nor  can  it  move; 

Thy  faithfulness  is  unto  all — 

Thy  works  this  truth  doth  prove. 

All  things  continue  day  by  day, 
According  to  Thy  Word, 

For  they  Thy  willing  servants  are, 
And  Thy  commands  have  heard. 

Unless  Thy  holy  Word  had  been 
My  comfort  and  delight, 

I  should  in  my  affliction  then 
Have  perished  in  my  blight. 

Thy  precepts  I  shall  ne’er  forget; 

To  Thee  they  have  me  brought; 
Save  me,  O  Lord,  for  I  am  Thine; 
Thy  precepts  I  have  sought. 


228 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


The  wicked — long  in  wait  for  me — 

Have  sought  me  to  destroy, 

But  I  Thy  testimonies  shall 
For  their  defeat  employ. 

Mine  eyes  have  seen  an  end  of  all 
That  perfect  is,  and  good — 

May  Thy  commandments,  righteous  God, 
Be  fully  understood. 

e>  MEM 

Oh,  how  I  love  Thy  holy  law! 

It  is  my  constant  stay; 

It  is  my  meditation  sweet 

Through  each  succeeding  day. 

By  Thy  commandments  Thou  hast  made 
Me  wiser  than  my  foes; 

Through  them  I  have  more  knowledge  than 
My  wisest  teacher  knows. 

Because  Thy  testimonies  are 
My  meditations  deep, 

I  understand  them,  for  I  do 
Thy  holy  precepts  keep. 

My  feet  I  have  refrained  from  ways 
That  evil  are  and  wrong; 

I’ve  not  departed  from  Thy  path, 

For  Thou  hast  made  me  strong. 

How  sweet  Thy  words  are  to  my  taste! 
Yea,  sweeter  far  are  they 

Than  honey  is  unto  my  mouth, — 

They  are  my  joy  and  stay. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


229 


’Tis  through  Thy  precepts  that  I  get 
An  understanding  mind; 

Therefore  I  hate  each  false,  dark  step, 
Where  Thee  I  cannot  find. 

a  NUN 

Thy  Word  is  as  a  lamp  unto 
My  halting,  stumbling  feet; 

A  lamp  it  is  unto  my  path, 

Whose  rays  my  footsteps  meet. 

I  have  declared,  e’en  with  an  oath, 

That  I  Thy  laws  would  keep; 

I  am  in  trouble,  quicken  me 
In  my  affliction  deep. 

Accept,  O  Lord,  I  Thee  beseech, 

The  offerings  I  bring; 

Teach  me  Thy  judgments,  Lord,  and  let 
Me  of  Thy  mercies  sing. 

My  soul  is  in  my  hand,  yet  I 
Do  not  Thy  law  forget: 

My  foes  have  laid  a  snare  for  me, 

But  I’ve  escaped  their  net. 

Thy  testimonies,  Lord,  have  been 
A  heritage  most  sweet; 

For  the  rejoicing  of  my  heart, 

They  have  been  found  complete. 

I  have  inclined  my  heart  always 
Thy  statutes  to  perform; 

Yea,  I  will  keep  them  to  the  end, 

Through  sunshine  and  through  storm. 


230 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


□  SAMECH 

I  hate  vain  thoughts  that  in  me  rise, 

But  I  Thy  law  do  love; 

Thou  art  my  hiding  place  and  shield, 
Thy  Word  my  hope  doth  prove. 

Depart  from  me  thou  evil  ones! 

For  I  will  keep  God’s  law; 

According  to  Thy  word,  O  Lord, 

My  soul  unto  Thee  draw. 

O  let  me  never  be  ashamed 
Of  this,  my  hope  and  trust; 

Hold  thou  me  up,  and  I’ll  be  safe, 

For  Thou,  O  Lord,  art  just. 

Lord,  Thou  hast  trodden  down  all  those 
That  from  Thy  statutes  erred; 

For  their  deceit  is  falsehood,  and 
Their  end  is  not  deferred. 

Thou  puttest  far  away  from  Thee 
The  wicked  and  profane; 

Therefore  Thy  holy  truths  1  love, 

Nor  shall  my  hope  be  vain. 

My  flesh  doth  tremble  sore  in  fear 
Of  Thee  whene’er  I  sin; 

1  of  Thy  judgments  am  afraid — 

Me  from  all  evil  win. 

V  AIN 

I’ve  judgment  done,  O  Lord,  and  have 
In  justice  dealt  with  all; 

To  mine  oppressors  leave  me  not, 

Lest  in  their  trap  I  fall. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


231 


Be  surety  for  me,  O  Lord, 

As  I  Thy  throne  address; 

Let  not  the  proud  and  prosperous 
Thy  servant  now  oppress. 

Deal  with  Thy  servant  graciously, 

In  mercy  and  in  love; 

Teach  me  Thy  statutes  and  Thy  truth 
With  wisdom  from  above. 

I  am  Thy  servant;  give  to  me 
An  understanding  heart, 

That  I  Thy  testimonies  may 
To  darkened  souls  impart. 

’Tis  time  for  Thee  to  work,  O  Lord, 

For  they’ve  made  void  Thy  law; 

In  error  they  are  gone  astray, 

And  others  with  them  draw. 

Therefore,  I  Thy  commandments  love 
Above  the  finest  gold; 

Yea,  far  above  all  earthly  wealth 
I  do  Thy  statutes  hold. 

And  I  esteem  Thy  precepts,  Lord, 
Concerning  all  things  right, 

While  ev’ry  way  that’s  false  and  dark 
Is  hateful  in  my  sight. 

D  PE 

Thy  sacred  testimonies,  Lord  , 

Are  wonderful  to  me; 

Therefore,  my  soul  doth  keep  them,  and 
Doth  beauty  in  them  see. 


232 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


The  entrance  of  Thy  holy  word 
Doth  unto  me  give  light; 

Unto  the  simple  it  doth  give 
An  understanding  right. 

I  opened  wide  my  mouth  in  thirst, 

And  panted  for  Thy  Word; 

I  longed  for  Thy  commandments  which 
My  willing  ears  had  heard. 

Look  Thou  on  me,  O  Lord,  and  be 
Most  merciful  to  Thine; 

As  Thou  hast  looked  on  those  that  loved 
Thy  holy  name  divine. 

My  steps  now  order  in  Thy  word; 

Let  not  iniquity 

Rule  over  me,  nor  draw  my  soul 
From  searching  after  Thee. 

From  the  oppression  of  vain  man, 
Deliver  me,  O  Lord, 

So  will  I  keep  Thy  precepts  true, 

So  will  I  keep  Thy  Word. 

Make,  Lord,  Thy  face  to  shine  upon 
Thy  servant  here  below; 

Teach  me  Thy  statutes,  give  me  grace 
Their  wondrous  truths  to  know. 

Mine  eyes  with  tears  exhaust  themselves, 
Because  of  wickedness; 

Because  men  do  not  keep  Thy  law, 

But  do  in  sin  transgress. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


233 


2  TZADDI 

Thou,  only  Thou,  art  holy,  Lord; 

Thy  judgments  are  upright; 

Thy  testimonies  righteous  are, 

And  faithful  to  give  light. 

My  zeal  for  Thee  and  for  Thy  cause, 
Hath  me  consumed,  O  Lord, 

Because  my  foes  forgotten  have, 
Thine  everlasting  Word. 

Thy  Word  is  very  pure:  it  doth 
A  sacred  love  beget; 

Therefore  Thy  servant  loveth  it, 

And  cleaveth  to  it  yet. 

I’m  small  and  I’m  despised,  but  I 
Unto  Thy  precepts  hold; 

Thy  righteousness  undying  is, 

Thy  truth  is  never  old. 

Trouble  and  anguish,  Lord,  have  laid 
Their  hold  upon  me  now, 

Yet  I,  in  glad  submission,  do 
To  Thy  commandments  bow. 

The  righteousness  of  all  Thy  laws 
Has  ever  been  the  same; 

Give  understanding  unto  me, 

To  live  and  it  proclaim. 

p  KOPH 

With  my  whole  heart  I  cried  to  Thee: 
Hear  me,  O  Lord,  I  pray, 

And  I  will  keep  Thy  statutes  true, 
And  serve  Thee  on  the  way. 


234 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


I  cried  to  Thee  in  my  distress: 

Save  me,  and  I  shall  keep 

Thy  holy  testimonies,  Lord, 

And  Thy  commandments  deep. 

The  hours  of  night  were  lengthened,  and 
The  morning  light  was  stayed, 

While  I  unto  Thee  cried  aloud, 

And  supplication  made. 

The  watches  of  the  night  passed  by, 

And  1  observed  them  not, 

That  I  might  meditate  upon 

The  truths  Thy  Word  hath  brought. 

Hear  Thou  my  voice,  according  to 
Thy  loving-kindness,  Lord; 

To  quicken  me,  according  to 
Thy  judgment,  help  afford. 

All  they  that  follow  mischief  are 
Not  far  from  me  removed, 

But  Thou,  O  Lord,  art  near,  and  all 
Thy  statutes  have  been  proved. 

And  of  Thy  testimonies,  Lord, 

1  have  them  known  of  old, 

That  Thou  hast  brought  them  forth,  and  dost 
Their  deep  foundations  hold. 

1  RESH 

O  Lord,  on  my  affliction  look! 

Deliver  me,  I  pray; 

For  I  Thy  law  do  not  forget, 

It  is  my  guide  and  stay. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


235 


Plead  Thou  my  cause;  deliver  me; 

Help  me,  for  I  am  weak: 

The  wicked  are  afar  from  Thee, 

Nor  do  Thy  statutes  seek. 

Great  are  Thy  tender  mercies,  Lord; 

Me  quicken  and  reclaim; 

Mine  enemies  are  many,  yet 
1  still  hold  to  Thy  name. 

My  heart  was  grieved  when  I  beheld 
The  path  the  wicked  trod, 

Because  they  did  not  keep  the  truth, 
Nor  follow  after  God. 

Consider  how  I  love  Thy  law! 

Me  quicken  by  Thy  Word; 
According  to  Thy  tender  love, 

Help  unto  me  afford. 

From  the  beginning,  Lord,  Thy  Word 
Was  ever  true  and  pure, 

And  all  Thy  judgments  shall 
For  evermore  endure. 

v  SCHIN 

Princes  have  persecuted  me, 

O  Lord,  without  a  cause; 

But  yet  my  heart  doth  stand  in  awe 
And  reverence  of  Thy  laws. 

As  one  that  findeth  richest  spoil, 

I  at  Thy  word  rejoice; 

All  falsehood  doth  my  soul  abhor — 
Thy  precepts  are  my  choice. 


236 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Yea,  seven  times  a  day  my  soul 
Doth  rise  to  Thee  in  praise, 

Because  Thy  righteous  judgments  do 
Attend  my  steps  always. 

Great  peace  have  they  who  love  Thy  law; 

Naught  shall  their  trust  offend: 

I’ve  hoped  for  Thy  salvation,  Lord — 

My  will  to  Thine  1  bend. 

My  soul,  by  help  divine,  hath  kept 
Thy  testimonies  true; 

I  love  them  all  exceedingly; 

They  do  my  strength  renew. 

Thy  testimonies  I  have  kept; 

Thy  precepts  guide  my  heart, 

For  all  my  ways  before  Thee  are; 

1  ne’er  from  Thee  shall  part. 

n  TAU 

Let  now  my  cry  come  near  to  Thee, 

O  Lord,  I  humbly  pray; 

Give  me  an  understanding  mind 
To  know  what  Thou  dost  say. 

Let  now  my  supplication  come 
Before  Thee,  O  my  Lord; 

Deliver  me  according  to 

Thine  own  most  gracious  word. 

My  lips  shall  utter  praise  when  Thou 
Hast  me  Thy  statutes  taught; 

My  tongue  shall  praise  Thee  for  the  truth 
Thou  hast  unto  me  brought. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


237 


Help  me,  for  I  have  chosen  now 
Thy  precepts  pure  and  right; 

Tve  longed  for  Thy  salvation,  Lord; 
Thy  law  is  my  delight. 

Let  now  my  soul  awake  to  Thee, 

And  it  shall  give  Thee  praise ; 

And  let  Thy  judgments  give  me  help 
Through  all  the  coming  days. 

Like  a  lost  sheep  I’ve  gone  astray; 

Thy  servant  seek  and  find, 

For  I  do  not  forget  Thy  laws 

And  Thy  commandments  kind. 

PSALM  120 

While  plunged  in  deep  distress, 

1  cried  unto  the  Lord; 

He  heard  me,  and  a  quick  relief 
Did  graciously  afford. 

O  Lord,  from  lying  lips, 

Deliver  now  my  soul ; 

Free  me  from  the  deceitful  tongue, 

Let  it  not  me  despoil. 

What  shall  be  given  thee? 

Or  what  to  thee  be  done, 

Thou  tongue?  so  false,  and  prone  to  hurt 
The  unsuspecting  one? 

Woe!  woe  be  unto  me, 

That  I  do  now  sojourn 
In  Mesech!  that  I  dwell,  alas! 

In  Kedar’s  tents,  I  mourn. 


238 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


My  soul  hath  dwelt  full  long 
With  him  that  hateth  peace; 

I  am  for  peace ;  but  when  I  speak, 
Their  threats  of  war  increase. 


PSALM  121 

While  on  faith’s  wing  my  prayers  arise, 
I’ll  lift  unto  the  hills  mine  eyes, 

From  whence  my  help  doth  come; 
My  help  comes  from  the  Lord  on  high, 
Who  made  the  earth  and  starry  sky — 
Yon  vast,  effulgent  dome. 

He  will  not  let  thy  foot  be  moved; 
Lo!  He  that  keepeth  thee  hath  proved 
He  will  thee  safely  keep: 

Yea,  He  that  keepeth  Israel, 

And  who  thine  ev’ry  want  can  tell, 
Shall  slumber  not,  nor  sleep. 

The  Lord  doth  ever  by  thee  stand, 

He  is  thy  shade  on  thy  right  hand, 

And  thy  protector  near; 

The  sun  shall  not  thee  smite  by  day, 
Nor  shall  the  moon  by  night  thee  slay, 
Nor  cast  on  thee  a  fear. 

The  Lord  shall  thee  preserve  from  ill, 
And  all  thy  life  with  blessings  fill; 

Thy  sin-sick  soul  restore; 

Thy  going  out  and  coming  in, 

He  shall  preserve  from  harm  and  sin, 
Now,  and  for  evermore. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


239 


PSALM  122 

My  heart  rejoiced  when  they 
Devoutly  said  to  me: 

Let  us  unto  God’s  house 
Go  up  and  nourished  be: 

Our  feet  shall  stand  within  thy  gates, 

O  temple  fair!  where  praise  awaits. 

Jerusalem  is  built 
As  is  a  city  strong, 

Whither  the  tribes  go  up 
With  glad,  exultant  song, 

To  testify  by  act  and  word, 

And  render  thanks  unto  the  Lord. 

i 

For  there  are  set  the  thrones 
Of  judgment,  just  and  sure; 

The  thrones  of  David’s  house, 

Erected  to  endure: 

Jerusalem!  pray  for  her  peace, 

Who  loves  her  shall  yet  more  increase. 

Peace  be  within  thy  walls, 

O  city  of  our  King! 

There  let  prosperity 

Her  willing  off ’rings  bring; 

E’en  in  thy  palaces  so  fair, 

Let  blessings  rich  attend  thee  there. 

For  my  companion’s  sakes 
I  humbly  now  would  say, 

Let  peace  within  thee  dwell, 

And  holiness  alway; 

I  of  God’s  house  will  gladly  speak, 

Her  happiness  my  heart  will  seek. 


240 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


PSALM  123 

Lord,  unto  Thee  I  lift  mine  eyes; 

To  Thee,  who  dwellest  above; 

E’en  as  the  eyes  of  servants  look 
To  masters  whom  they  love. 

And  as  the  eyes  of  maids,  who  turn, 

To  learn  their  mistress’  will, 

So  do  our  eyes  wait  on  the  Lord; 

His  mercy  we  trust  still. 

Have  mercy  on  us,  O  our  God, 

Have  mercy  on  us  now, 

For  we  are  filled  with  all  contempt 
As  we  before  Thee  bow. 

Our  souls  are  filled  with  heaviness, 
Because  of  those  that  scorn; 

Because  of  those  that  sit  at  ease, 

Our  hearts  with  grief  are  torn. 

Yea,  the  contempt  of  all  the  proud, 
Doth  cause  us  daily  grief: 

Turn  unto  us,  O  Lord,  and  send 
Unto  Thine  own  relief. 

PSALM  124 

If  it  had  not  been  Jehovah, 

Who  was  on  our  side  and  fought, 

Now  might  Israel  say,  with  trembling, 
Swift  defeat  had  been  our  lot. 

If  it  had  not  been  Jehovah, 

Who  remained  our  strong  defence, 

Foes  would  soon  have  us  defeated, 
And  in  wrath  dispersed  us  hence. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


241 


Then  they  had  consumed  us  quickly, 
When  their  wrath  against  us  rose; 

Then  the  waters  had  o’er-whelmed  us 
In  the  presence  of  our  foes; 

Then  the  waters,  proud  and  raging, 
Had  engulfed  us  by  the  way: 

Blessed  be  the  Lord  who  hath  not 
Given  us  to  them  a  prey. 

As  a  bird  escapes  the  fowlers, 

Who  have  set  for  it  a  snare, 

So  the  snare  they  set  is  broken, 

And  we  have  escaped  them  there. 

All  our  help  is  in  Jehovah, 

In  His  name  is  all  our  trust; 

He  who  framed  the  earth  and  heaven, 
Is  our  helper,  strong  and  just. 


PSALM  125 

All  they  that  trust  in  God  for  aid, 

Shall  be,  like  Zion’s  mount,  secure; 

Whose  deep  foundations,  firmly  laid, 
Abideth  always  strong  and  sure. 

Like  as  the  mountains,  tow’ring  high, 

Are  round  about  Jerusalem, 

So  is  the  Lord  at  all  times  nigh 
His  own,  and  watches  over  them. 

For  sure  the  rod  of  the  unjust 
Shall  not  upon  the  righteous  be, 

Lest  e’en  God’s  own  should  put  their  trust 
In  that  which  works  iniquity. 


242 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Do  good,  O  Lord,  to  those  that  are 
Upright  and  good  within  their  hearts; 

But  as  for  such  as  wander  far, 

God’s  watchful  care  o’er  them  departs. 

Yea,  all  that  turn  to  crooked  ways, 

Their  right  to  God’s  protection  sell, 

And  they  shall  wander  all  their  days, — 
But  peace  shall  be  on  Israel. 

PSALM  126 

How  did  our  hearts  rejoice, 

When  God  in  mercy  turned, 

Our  bondage  into  freedom,  and 
Gave  that  for  which  we  yearned. 

r  v 

We  were  like  them  that  dream; 

Nor  could  we  understand 

That  God  had  granted  our  desire 
To  reach  our  native  land. 

Then  laughter  filled  our  mouth; 

Our  tongue  to  songs  gave  vent, 

Because  the  Lord  had  unto  us 
This  crowning  blessing  sent. 

Among  the  heathen,  too, 

*Twas  said:  The  Lord  hath  done 

Great  things  for  them,  and  surely  hath 
Their  freedom  for  them  won. 

The  Lord  hath  done  great  things 
For  us,  and  we  are  glad; 

Sing,  sing  our  hearts  in  thankfulness, 

Nor  let  them  more  be  sad. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


243 


Turn  our  captivity 

Unto  Thy  praise,  O  Lord; 

As  streams  reviving  in  the  south, 
Revive  us  by  Thy  word. 

All  they  that  sow  in  tears, 

Shall  later  reap  in  joy; 

Yea,  all  shall  gather  rich  reward 
That  do  God’s  word  employ. 

He  that  in  toil  and  pain 

The  precious  message  leaves, 

Shall  doubtless  come  again  in  joy, 
Bringing  his  garnered  sheaves. 

PSALM  127 

Except  the  Lord  doth  build 
The  house,  and  it  maintain, 

They  that  erect  its  walls, 

Do  labor  but  in  vain: 

Except  the  Lord  the  city  guard, 

The  watchman  cannot  ill  retard. 

Tis  vain  for  you  to  rise 

With  morning’s  dawning  light; 

To  sit  up  late,  to  eat 

Thy  bread  far  in  the  night, 

For  e’en  with  sorrows  surging  deep, 

He  giveth  His  beloved  sleep. 

Lo !  children  are  always 
A  gift  from  God  above; 

They’re  His  reward,  and  show 
His  kind  and  thoughtful  love: 

As  arrows  in  the  soldier’s  hand, 

So  are  they  in  the  family  band. 


244 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Happy  the  man  that  hath 
His  quiver  full  of  them; 

He  shall  not  be  afraid 

That  foes  shall  him  o’erwhelm: 
They  shall  not  be  ashamed,  but  wait 
To  meet  the  foe  within  the  gate. 


PSALM  128 

Behold!  thrice  blest  is  ev’ry  one 
That  fears  the  Lord  always; 

God’s  richest  blessing  he  enjoys, 
And  peace  through  all  his  days. 

Yea,  more,  the  labor  of  thy  hands 
Shall  fruit  to  thee  return, 

And  thou  shalt  in  prosperity 
A  peaceful  plenty  earn. 

Thy  wife  shall,  as  a  fruitful  vine, 
Thy  home  adorn  and  cheer; 

Like  olive  plants  thy  children  shall 
Around  thy  board  appear. 

Behold,  that  even  thus  the  man 
Is  blest  that  fears  the  Lord ; 

Prosperity  within  the  church 
Shall  joy  to  him  afford. 

For  out  of  Zion  shall  the  Lord 
His  blessing  to  thee  send; 

And  thou  shalt  see  the  churches  good 
Increase  unto  the  end. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


245 


Yet  further  will  the  Lord  bestow 
His  gifts  with  lavish  hand, — 

Thy  children’s  children  thou  shalt  see, 
And  peace  throughout  the  land. 


PSALM  129 

Many  a  time  have  they 
Afflicted  me  full  sore: 

Yea,  this  may  Israel  say: 

They  plowed  me  o’er  and  o’er — 
They  from  my  youth  afflicted  me, 
Yet  they  could  not  my  captors  be. 

The  plowers  plowed  me  through; 

They  made  their  furrows  long, 
And  sought  with  efforts  new, 

To  do  me  fatal  wrong — 

The  righteous  Lord  true  help  affords, 
Asunder  He  hath  cut  their  cords. 

Let  them  confounded  be, 

And  backward  turned  to  shame, 
Who  would  delight  to  see 

Despoiled  fair  Zion’s  name — 

Let  them  be  as  the  withered  grass 
That  gleaners  wise  unnoticed  pass. 

Neither  is  heard  the  prayer 

From  those  who  pass  that  way: 
God’s  blessing,  rich  and  fair, 

Be  on  you  this  glad  day — 

Nor  do  they  in  their  joy  exclaim: 

We  bless  you  in  God’s  holy  name. 

. 


246 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


PSALM  130 

Out  of  the  depths  of  sore  distress, 

To  Thee,  O  Lord,  I  cried; 

When  with  my  voice  I  Thee  address, 
Turn  not  from  me  aside. 

If  Thou  shouldst  mark  iniquity, 

Who,  unconsumed,  could  stand? 

But  pardon  may  be  sought  of  Thee, 

And  favor  from  Thy  hand. 

In  patience  wait  I  for  the  Lord; 

For  Him  my  soul  doth  wait; 

My  hope  and  trust  are  in  His  word, 
E’en  when  He  tarries  late. 

My  soul,  with  longing,  looks  to  see 
The  coming  of  my  King; 

For  Him  I  watch  more  eagerly 
Than  aught  this  world  can  bring. 

More  than  the  weary  watcher’s  eye 
Looks  for  the  light  of  morn, 

Watches  and  waits,  for  God  Most  High, 
My  spirit  tossed  and  torn. 

In  God,  the  Lord,  let  Israel 
Hope  evermore  and  trust ; 

The  Lord  is  merciful,  and  well 
Rewards  the  good  and  just. 

In  Him  is  full  redemption  found 
For  all  who  to  Him  flee; 

Each  captive  soul,  by  Satan  bound, 

God’s  power  divine  sets  free. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


247 


PSALM  131 

Lord,  my  heart  is  not  found  haughty, 
Nor  are  lofty  found  mine  eyes, 

Neither  do  I  in  great  matters, 

For  vain  glory,  exercise. 

Surely  I  have  lived  and  acted 
As  a  weaned  child  should  do; 

Giving  up  what  is  forbidden, 

Striving  for  the  good  and  true. 

Now  let  Israel  in  Jehovah, 

Hope  and  trust  for  evermore; 

God  will  strengthen  all  her  borders, 

And  enrich  her  farthest  shore; 

Sure  the  church  in  Him  shall  triumph, 
She  shall  with  His  help  be  great ; 

Humbly  let  us  seek  His  favor, 

And  before  His  presence  wait. 

PSALM  132 

Remember,  Lord,  Thy  servant  now ; 

All  his  afflictions  call  to  mind, 

How  he  did  vow  to  Jacob’s  God, 

And  with  an  oath  this  promise  bind. 

I  will  not  come  into  my  house, 

Nor  to  mine  eyes  give  needed  sleep, 

Until  I  find  a  place  for  Thee, 

Where  I  Thy  sacred  ark  can  keep. 

We  heard  of  it  at  Ephratah, 

We  found  it  in  a  distant  place; 

We’ll  enter  now  His  house  with  praise, 
We’ll  worship  there  before  His  face. 


248 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Arise!  O  Lord,  into  Thy  rest, 

Thou  and  the  ark  Thou  dwellest  in; 

There  let  Thy  priests  with  righteousness 
Be  clothed,  nor  tainted  be  with  sin. 

And  let  Thy  children  shout  for  joy, 

On  this,  Thy  great,  triumphant  day; 

The  face  of  Thine  anointed,  Lord, 

For  David’s  sake,  turn  not  away. 

The  Lord  hath  unto  David  sworn, 

Nor  will  He  e’er  His  vow  forget: 

The  children  that  descend  from  thee, 
Shall  rule  within  thy  kingdom  yet. 

And  if  they  keep  My  holy  law, 

The  laws  that  I  shall  to  them  show, 

I  on  thy  children’s  children  shall 
Thy  throne  for  evermore  bestow. 

The  Lord  hath  chosen  Zion  fair, 

To  be  His  earthly  resting  place; 

There  may  He  now  be  sought  of  them, 
Who  seek  to  find  His  saving  grace. 

This  is  my  rest,  here  will  I  dwell, 

And  gifts  divine  will  freely  shed, 

And  food  will  give  abundantly, 

To  satisfy  her  poor  with  bread. 

Her  priests  I  will  in  honor  clothe, 

With  garments  of  salvation  strong; 

Her  saints  shall  shout  aloud  for  joy, 
And  all  the  hosts  take  up  the  song. 


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249 


To  bud  I  will  make  David’s  horn; 

For  him  I  have  through  grace  ordained 
A  lamp  to  guide  his  steps  aright, 

The  light  thereof  shall  be  sustained. 


His  foes  I  now  will  clothe  with  shame; 

Upon  their  efforts  I  will  frown; 

But  David’s  triumphs  shall  increase, 

And  glorious  shall  be  his  crown. 


PSALM  133 

Behold!  how  good  it  is, 

And  how  becoming  well, 
For  brethren  of  the  church 
In  unity  to  dwell. 


’Tis  like  the  precious  oil, 

Poured  on  the  prophet’s  head, 
That  doth  on  all  around 
A  sacred  fragrance  shed. 


Or  as  the  dew  that  fell 

On  Hermon’s  parched  crown. 
And  as  the  dew  that  on 

Fair  Zion’s  mount  came  down. 


For  there  Jehovah  caused 
His  blessing  to  descend, 
E’en  life  for  evermore, 

And  joys  that  never  end. 


250 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


PSALM  134 

Ye  saints,  bless  ye  our  Sov’reign  Lord; 
Attend  unto  His  gracious  word: 

Ye  servants,  bless  His  name. 

All  ye  who  stand  throughout  the  night, 
To  get  from  Him  a  clearer  light, 

His  glory  there  proclaim. 

Lift  up  your  hands  in  earnest  prayer 
Within  His  sanctuary  there, 

And  praise  the  Lord  always; 

The  Lord  that  made  the  heavens  high, 
The  earth  and  all  beneath  the  sky, 

Bless  thee  through  all  thy  days. 

PSALM  135 

Praise  the  Lord,  ye  people  all; 

Praise  His  name,  upon  Him  call; 

All  ye  servants  of  the  Lord, 

Praise  His  name  with  one  accord. 

Ye  that  stand  within  the  gates — 
Where  His  spirit  ever  waits — 

Praise  the  Lord,  for  He  is  good, 
Giving  to  us  precious  food. 

For  the  Lord  hath  Jacob  brought 
To  Himself,  and  Israel  sought; 

All  must  know  the  Lord  is  great, 
Marvelous  is  His  estate. 

In  the  heavens,  earth,  and  seas, 

He  His  pleasure  did  in  these; 

In  all  places,  hidden  deep, 

There  He  did  His  marvels  keep. 


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251 


He  the  vapor  makes  ascend 
From  the  earth’s  remotest  end; 

He  for  rain  the  lightning  brings, 

Gives  the  raging  tempest  wings. 

There  in  Egypt,  by  His  hand, 

Died  the  first-born  of  the  land; 

Tokens,  wonderful  and  great, 

There  did  Pharaoh  await. 

Nations  great  He  cut  in  two; 

Yea,  and  mighty  monarchs  slew; 
Sihon  He  compelled  to  yield; 

Og  of  Bashan  fled  the  field. 

All  the  kingdoms  captured  were 
In  that  land  of  promise  fair, 

And  to  Israel  their  land 
Given  was  by  God’s  own  hand. 

Lord,  Thy  name,  from  shore  to  shore, 
Shall  endure  for  evermore; 

Thy  memorial  shall  stand 
Changeless  in  that  favored  land. 

For  the  Lord  His  people  will 
Judge,  and  guard,  and  nourish,  still; 
He  will  not  His  own  forsake, 

But  will  to  their  help  awake. 

Idols  that  the  heathen  hold, 

Are  of  silver  and  of  gold; 

Mouths  have  they,  but  they  speak  not, 
Vain  are  prayers  unto  them  brought. 


252 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Eyes  have  they,  but  void  of  sight — 

One  to  them,  are  dark  and  light; 

They  have  ears,  but  do  not  hear, 

Nor  doth  breath  their  mouths  come  near. 

They  that  make  them  are  the  same, 

Having  but  a  lifeless  name; 

As  are  they  who  trust  in  them; 

All  their  works  do  them  condemn. 

Bless  the  Lord,  O  Israel ! 

Of  His  loving  kindness  tell; 

House  of  Aaron!  bless  the  Lord, 

Spread  abroad  His  living  word. 

House  of  Levi!  service  bring 
To  the  high  exalted  King; 

Ye  that  fear  Jehovah,  praise; 

Saints  of  God!  your  anthems  raise. 

Out  of  Zion  blessed  be 
God,  who  brought  us  liberty: 

Praise  His  name!  His  name  adore! 

Praise  the  Lord  for  evermore. 

PSALM  136 

Give  thanks  unto  the  Lord, 

For  He  alone  is  good; 

His  tender  mercy  ever  hath 
Through  all  the  ages  stood. 

Give  thanks  unto  the  God 
Who  ruleth  over  all; 

His  tender  mercies  never  cease 
Unto  the  great  and  small. 


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253 


Give  thanks  unto  the  Lord, 

The  Lord  of  lords  on  high; 

His  tender  mercy  is  to  those 
Who  unto  Him  draw  nigh. 

Give  thanks  to  Him  who  doth 
Great  wonders  here  below; 

His  tender  mercies,  lavishly, 

He  doth  on  all  bestow. 

Give  thanks  to  Him  who  by 
His  wisdom  all  things  made; 

His  tender  mercies  ever  are 
Upon  His  children  laid. 

Give  thanks  to  Him  who  formed 
The  earth  o’er  waters  vast; 

His  tender  mercy  over  all 
He  hath  around  us  cast. 

Give  thanks  to  Him  who  made 
Great  lights  above  to  shine ; 

His  tender  mercy  ever  is, 

Like  boundless  space,  divine. 

Give  thanks  to  Him  who  placed 
The  sun  to  rule  by  day; 

God’s  mercy,  never  failing,  shall 
Light  the  believer’s  way.  v 

Give  thanks  to  Him  who  formed 
The  moon  and  stars  for  night; 

His  mercy  still  endures  to  guide 
Our  dim  and  searching  sight. 


254 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Give  thanks  to  Him  that  smote 
Egypt  in  her  first-born; 

His  mercy  thus  was  reaching  far, 
To  lift  for  us  an  horn. 

Give  thanks  to  Him  who  brought 
His  people  safely  out; 

His  mercy  still  to  His  is  found 
A  bulwark  round  about. 

Give  thanks  for  His  strong  hand, 
And  for  His  stretched  out  arm; 

His  grace  and  mercy  reaches  all, 
To  rescue  them  from  harm. 

Give  thanks  to  Him  who  did 
The  sea  in  parts  divide; 

For  still  His  mercy  shall  with  them 
That  trust  in  Him,  abide. 

Give  thanks  to  Him  who  brought 
His  people  safely  through, 

For  thus  His  mercy,  ever  kind, 

He  daily  will  renew. 

* 

The  proud  Egyptian  hosts 
Were  in  the  sea  o’erthrown, 

But  God’s  unfailing  mercy  did 
Guide  and  protect  His  own. 

Give  thanks  to  Him  who  led, 
Through  the  vast  wilderness, 

His  people;  for  His  mercy  doth 
Guide  them  in  times  of  stress. 


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255 


Give  thanks  to  Him  who  smote 

Great  kings,  and  strong  kings  slew; 

His  mercy  everlasting  is, 

And  giveth  courage  new. 

Give  thanks  that  Sihon  fell, 

And  Og,  of  Bashan,  died; 

For  thus  God’s  mercy  there  made  strong 
Those  that  on  Him  relied. 

He,  for  an  heritage, 

Gave  unto  them  their  land; 

For  He  His  mercy  measures  out 
With  an  unfailing  hand. 

Yea,  for  an  heritage 
Gave  it  to  Israel; 

For  thus  God’s  mercy,  kind  and  great, 

In  showers  on  them  fell. 

He  us  remembered  still, 

While  in  our  low  estate, 

For  oh!  His  mercy  still  is  shown, 

His  kindness  still  is  great. 

From  all  our  enemies, 

The  Lord  hath  us  redeemed; 

His  mercy,  all  far-reaching,  hath 
Been  greater  than  it  seemed. 

Give  thanks  to  Him  who  hath 
Provided  food  for  all; 

His  mercy  never  faileth  when 
His  children  on  Him  call. 


256 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Give  thanks,  give  thanks  unto 
The  God  of  Heaven  above, 
For  now  His  mercy  is  the  same, 
And  changeless  is  His  love. 


PSALM  137 

By  the  rivers,  smoothly  flowing, 

In  far  distant  Babylon, 

There  we  wept,  when  we  remembered 
Zion  and  her  pleasures  gone: 

Yea,  we  there  upon  the  willows 
Hung  our  silent  harps  and  wept, 
For  from  city  and  from  country. 

We  as  captives  had  been  swept. 


And  our  captors  had  demanded 
Of  us  now  a  native  song; 

Songs  that  we  had  sung  in  Zion, 
Songs  that  to  our  land  belong. 
How  shall  we,  while  still  in  bondage, 
Sing  God’s  song  in  a  strange  land? 
How  shall  we,  while  tears  are  falling, 
Now  comply  with  their  demand? 


O  Jerusalem!  if  ever 

I  forget  thee  and  thy  joy, 

Let  my  right  hand  then  her  cunning 
Never  more  her  skill  employ; 

If  I  do  not  thee  remember, 

Silent  then  remain  my  tongue, 

If  Jerusalem  I  do  not 

Now  prefer  all  joys  among. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


257 


Lord,  recall  the  sons  of  Edom, 

In  our  day  of  tears  and  groans; 

They  who  cried  with  shouts  to  raze  it, 

E’en  to  its  foundation  stones. 

O  thou  child  of  Babylonia, 

Who  art  soon  to  be  destroyed, 

Happy  they,  who  in  that  mission 
Worthy  are  to  be  employed. 

PSALM  138 

With  my  whole  heart  Thee  will  I  praise, 

And  psalms  of  joy  will  gladly  sing; 

Within  Thy  temple  I  will  raise 

My  songs  on  faith’s  triumphant  wing. 

For  all  Thy  truth  unto  me  shown, 

Thy  lovingkindness  to  me  given, 

For  these,  I  bow  before  Thy  throne 

And  worship  Thee,  Thou  God  of  Heaven. 

Lo !  in  the  day  of  sore  distress, 

When  I  besought  Thy  help  with  tears, 

Thou  didst  me  hear,  and  didst  me  bless, 

And  strengthened  me  to  meet  my  fears. 

O  Lord,  the  kings  of  all  the  earth, 

Shall  bless  Thee  when  they  hear  Thy  words; 

Yea,  in  Thy  ways,  with  holy  mirth, 

They’ll  sing  for  what  Thy  grace  affords. 

Though  God,  the  Lord,  is  high,  yet  He 
Unto  the  lowly  hath  respect; 

But  they  who  proud  and  scornful  be, 

The  great  Jehovah  will  reject. 


258 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Though  I  must  walk  through  troubles  sore, 
Thy  grace  shall  still  my  faith  revive; 

Thy  mighty  hand,  stretched  out  before, 

Shall  strength  from  vengeful  foes  deprive. 


That  which  concerneth  me,  God  will 
Make  perfect  in  His  own  right  way : 
Thy  mercy,  Lord,  endureth  still; 
Forsake  me  not,  1  humbly  pray. 


PSALM  139 

O  Lord,  Thou  hast  me  searched 
With  Thine  unsleeping  eyes; 
Thou  knowest  when  I  rest, 

And  when  to  work  I  rise: 

Thou  understandeth  all  my  thought, 
’Tis  instantly  unto  Thee  brought. 


Thou  dost  surround  my  path, 

And  all  I  do  therein; 

My  ways  are  known  to  Thee, 

My  righteousness  and  sin; 

Upon  my  tongue  there’s  not  a  word, 

But  what  Thine  ear,  O  Lord,  hath  heard. 


Thou  hast  surrounded  me, 

And  laid  on  me  Thy  hand ; 

Thou  leadest  me  in  ways 
I  cannot  understand: 

Such  knowledge  is  too  great  for  me, 
Tis  high,  its  end  I  cannot  see. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


259 


O  whither  shall  I  go, 

Where  Thou  canst  not  me  see? 

Or  from  Thy  presence  where 
Shall  I  for  safety  flee? 

Nowhere  in  all  Thy  kingdom  wide, 

Can  I,  Jehovah,  from  Thee  hide. 

If  I  to  heaven  ascend, 

Thou  dost  its  glory  share; 

If  I  lie  down  in  hell, 

Thou  art,  O  Lord,  e’en  there: 

There  is  no  place  where  Thou  art  not, — 
Impress  on  me  this  solemn  thought. 

If  I  take  wings  and  fly 
To  the  most  distant  sea, 

*Tis  there  Thy  hand  doth  lead, 

Thy  right  hand  holdeth  me; 

Or  if  I  say:  “Night  shall  me  hide.” 

E’en  in  the  dark,  Thou  dost  abide. 

The  deepest  darkness  doth 
Hide  nothing  from  Thy  sight, 

For  all  about  Thee  shines 
Pure  and  celestial  light; 

Unto  Thy  holy  eyes  divine, 

The  night  as  brightest  day  doth  shine 

Thou  hast  possessed  my  life, 

And  all  my  members  laid, — 

Thee  will  I  praise,  for  I 
Am  wonderfully  made. 

Of  all  Thy  works,  no  tongue  can  tell, 
And  what  Thou  doest,  Lord,  is  well. 


260 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Before  my  frame  was  formed, 

Thine  eyes  did  me  behold; 

My  members  in  Thy  book, 

Were  written  there  of  old; 

While  yet  they  were  unformed,  Thy  mind 
Did  hope  and  pleasure  in  them  find. 


How  precious  also  are 

Thy  thoughts  unto  me,  Lord; 

In  number  they  are  more 
Than  pen  can  e’er  record: 

In  sleep  I  can  Thy  presence  see; 

When  I  awake  I’m  still  with  Thee. 

Thou,  Lord,  wilt  surely  slay 
All  the  unrighteous,  then; 

Depart  from  me,  therefore, 

Ye  bloody-minded  men, — 

For  they  against  Thee  evil  speak; 

To  harm  Thee,  Lord,  Thy  foes  do  seek. 

Do  not  I  hate  all  those 

That  do  Thy  name  despise? 

Am  not  I  grieved  with  them 
That  do  against  Thee  rise? 

I  hate  with  perfect  hatred  these, 

I  count  them  all  mine  enemies. 

Search  me,  O  Lord,  I  pray ; 

Search  me,  and  know  my  heart; 

Try  me  and  know  my  thoughts, 

And  grace  to  me  impart ; 

If  evil  tempts  me  to  transgress, 

Lead  me  in  ways  of  righteousness. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


261 


PSALM  140 

Lord,  Jehovah,  me  deliver 
From  the  evil  man’s  design; 

From  the  man  of  blood  preserve  me; 

Save  me  by  Thy  strength  divine. 

They  which  in  their  hearts  imagine 
Only  mischief  to  my  harm, 

These,  when  they  for  war  are  gathered, 
Overthrow,  and  then  disarm. 

They  with  hate  their  tongues  have  sharpened, 
Adder’s  poisons  from  them  flow; 

Lord,  preserve  me  from  the  wicked, 

Who  my  plans  would  overthrow. 

Snares  the  proud  have  hidden  for  me, 

Cords  along  my  path  I  meet; 

Nets  and  gins  along  the  wayside, 

There  retard  my  hasting  feet. 

Then  I  said:  O  Lord,  Jehovah! 

Thou  alone  art  still  my  God; 

Listen  to  my  supplications, 

Lift  for  me  Thy  sacred  rod. 

Thou,  the  strength  of  my  salvation, 

Hast  been  unto  me  a  shield; 

Thou  hast  in  the  day  of  battle. 

Caused  mine  enemies  to  yield. 

The  endeavors  of  the  wicked, 

Grant  not,  Lord,  I  humbly  pray; 

Hinder  all  their  false  devices, 

Lest  they  triumph  in  the  way. 

As  for  those  that  me  encompass, 

Let  their  own  sins  cover  them; 

Let  the  fires  for  their  destruction, 

All  their  wicked  plots  o’erwhelm. 


262 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Let  not  now  an  evil  speaker 
Be  established  in  the  earth; 

Evil  shall  the  man  of  mischief 

Follow,  e’er  his  words  have  birth, 

Yea,  ’twill  seek  to  overthrow  him, 

All  his  schemes  shall  come  to  naught ; 

All  his  malice  and  his  hatred, 

Shall  against  himself  be  brought. 

Now  1  know  that  God,  Jehovah, 

The  afflicted  will  maintain, 

And  their  cause  will  be  supported, 
For  the  Lord  of  truth  doth  reign; 

Surely  then,  O  Lord,  the  righteous 
Shall  unto  Thy  name  give  praise, 

And  shall  in  Thy  holy  presence 
Dwell  in  safety  all  their  days. 

PSALM  141 

Lord,  to  Thee  my  soul  doth  look; 
Hasten,  and  to  me  draw  near; 

When  I  cry  to  Thee  in  prayer, 

To  my  voice,  O  Lord,  give  ear; 

Let  my  prayer  ascend  to  Thee; 

As  an  incense  let  it  rise, 

And  the  lifting  of  my  hands, 

As  the  evening  sacrifice. 

Set  a  watch  before  my  mouth; 

Of  my  lips,  keep  Thou  the  door; 

Let  not  now  my  heart  incline 
Unto  evil  any  more, 

Nor  to  practice  wicked  works 

In  their  place  where  sinners  meet ; 

At  their  table  let  me  not 
Of  their  dainties  ever  eat. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


263 


Let  the  righteous  smite  me,  Lord, 

It  shall  be  a  kindness  true, 

And  let  him  reprove  my  sin, 

It  shall  me  a  service  do; 

It,  when  ministered  in  love, 

Shall  an  oil  of  healing  be, 

And  my  prayer  for  them  shall  rise 
In  each  dark  calamity. 

When  their  judges  are  o’erthrown, 

When  they  stony  places  meet, 

They  shall  hear  but  words  of  peace, 
When  I  them  in  pity  greet. 

Lo!  our  bones  are  scattered  far, 

At  the  grave’s  mouth  left  to  dry; 

E’en  as  lies  the  sundered  wood, 

Do  our  lifeless  members  lie. 

But  mine  eyes  are  unto  Thee, 

O  Lord  God  of  Israel; 

What  may  yet  against  me  rise, 

It  shall,  with  Thy  help,  be  well. 

Lord  in  Thee  is  all  my  trust, 

All  my  cares  on  Thee  I  roll; 

Lord  Jehovah,  heed  my  prayer! 

Leave  not  destitute  my  soul. 

Keep  me  from  the  hurtful  snares, 

Snares  that  foes  have  laid  for  me, 

And  the  covered  plots  of  all 
Workers  of  iniquity; 

Let  the  wicked  fall  into 

Their  own  nets  that  they  have  made, 

Whilst  that  I  in  peace  escape 

Hidden  traps  that  they  have  laid. 


264 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


PSALM  142 

I  cried  unto  the  Lord, 

To  Him  I  made  my  plea; 

Yea,  I  my  supplications  made 
To  Him  on  bended  knee. 

I  poured  out  my  complaint, 

My  griefs  were  all  made  known; 

My  troubles  and  perplexities 
Were  there  unto  Him  shown. 

Lord,  when  my  spirit  was 
Cast  down  and  sore  afraid, 

Thou  knewest  all  my  path,  and  how 
My  foes  their  snares  had  laid. 

My  foes  in  secret  laid 

A  snare  to  catch  my  feet; 

I  looked  around,  if  happily, 

A  friend  I  there  should  meet. 

But  lo!  there  was  no  friend, 

Who  would  me  know  or  aid; 

All  refuge  failed  me,  no  one  cared 
What  snares  for  me  were  laid. 

Then  cried  I  unto  Thee, 

I  said:  O  Lord,  Thou  art 

My  refuge  and  my  portion  here, 

Thy  strength  to  me  impart. 

For  1  am  now  brought  low; 

Attend  unto  my  cry; 

From  all  my  foes  deliver  me, 

They  stronger  are  than  I. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


265 


Deliver  now  my  soul; 

It  out  of  prison  bring, 

That  I  may  praise  Thy  holy  name, 

And  of  Thy  mercies  sing. 

The  righteous,  yet,  in  time, 

Shall  compass  me  about; 

For  Thou  shalt  kindly  deal  with  me, 
Dispelling  ev’ry  doubt. 

PSALM  143 

Hear  Thou  my  prayer,  Almighty  God, 
Give  ear  to  my  entreating  cries; 

Give  answer  in  Thy  faithfulness — 

Thy  righteous  love  no  plea  denies. 

Lord,  enter  not  in  judgment  with 
Thy  servant  in  his  low  estate, 

For  in  Thy  sight  no  living  man 
Exempt  from  sin  can  ever  wait. 

Alas !  the  enemy  most  dread 
Hath  persecuted  sore  my  soul; 

He  hath  me  smitten  to  the  ground, 

And  made  thick  darkness  o’er  me  roll. 

Therefore  my  spirit  is  o’er-whelmed; 

My  heart  within  me  mourns  alone, 
While  I  recall  the  days  of  old, 

And  muse  on  all  that  Thou  hast  done. 

1  stretch  my  pleading  hands  to  Thee ; 

My  waiting  soul  for  Thee  dost  thirst; 
Hear  me,  O  Lord,  hide  not  Thy  face, 

Lest  I  be  like  the  souls  accurst. 


266 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


When  morning  breaks,  cause  me  to  hear 
Thy  gentle  voice  of  peace  and  love — 
In  Thee  I  trust;  show  me  the  way; 

I  lift  my  soul  to  Thee  above. 

Deliver  me  from  ev’ry  foe; 

In  Thee  my  troubled  soul  would  hide: 
Teach  me  to  do  Thy  holy  will; 

Let  me  in  righteousness  abide. 

O  quicken  me  for  Thy  name’s  sake! 

My  soul  from  trouble  deign  to  bring; 
Cut  off  my  foes;  destroy  them  all; 

Then  songs  of  praises  I  shall  sing. 

PSALM  144 

Blest  be  the  Lord,  my  strength, 

Who  teacheth  me  to  war; 

My  everlasting  Rock, 

My  tower,  seen  from  far: 

He  is  my  Shield  in  whom  I  trust ; 

He  giveth  me  dominion  just. 

Lord,  what  is  man  that  Thou 
Dost  knowledge  of  him  take? 

Or  what  his  offspring,  Lord, 

That  dost  Thy  love  awake? 

Man  is  like  vanity;  his  day 
Doth,  like  a  shadow,  pass  away. 

Bow  down  the  heavens,  Lord, 

And  in  Thy  power  come  down; 

The  mountains  touch,  and  smoke 
Shall  burst  from  out  their  crown; 

Cast  lightnings  forth;  them  scatter  all, 
And  on  them  let  Thine  arrows  fall. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


267 


Thy  hand  send  from  above; 

Free,  and  deliver  me 
From  the  great  waters  wild; 

From  strangers  set  me  free, 

Whose  mouth  but  vanity  doth  speak; 

Whose  false  right  hand  doth  mischief  seek. 


A  song  of  praise  to  Thee, 

A  new  song,  I  will  sing, 

And  instruments  of  praise, 

To  worship  Thee,  I’ll  bring: 

*Tis  God  who  doth  salvation  give; 

*Tis  He  who  bids  His  servants  live. 

Deliver  me,  O  Lord, 

From  the  false  stranger’s  hand, 

Whose  mouth  spreads  vanity 

And  falsehood  through  the  land; 

He  whose  right  hand  doth  falsehood  spread, 
And  brings  distress  upon  our  head. 

So  that  our  sons  may  be 

As  plants  grown  in  their  youth; 

Our  daughters,  pure  and  firm, 

Like  corner  stones  of  truth; 

Our  garners  full  of  ev’ry  store, 

Our  sheep  increased  yet  more  and  more. 

And  that  our  oxen  may 
For  labor  be  made  strong; 

And  no  invaders  come, 

Nor  foes  to  us  belong, 

That  there  be  no  complaining  word 
Within  our  streets  henceforward  heard. 


268 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


How  blest  that  people  is, 

Who  live  in  such  a  case! 

Thrice  happy  are  all  they, 

Who  know  Jehovah’s  face, 

And  who  can  say  with  one  accord: 
We  are  His  people;  He,  our  Lord. 


PSALM  145 

Thee  I’ll  extol,  Jehovah  God,  my  King; 

Thy  name  I’ll  bless  and  Thy  great  acts  proclaim; 
I  daily  will  unto  Thee  tribute  bring, 

And  daily  I’ll  exalt  Thy  holy  name. 


Great  is  the  Lord,  and  greatly  to  be  praised; 

Thy  greatness  is  unsearchable  and  rare; 

One  generation’s  voice  for  Thee  is  raised, 

The  coming  ones  Thy  greatness  still  declare. 


Of  all  Thy  glorious  majesty  I’ll  tell, 

And  of  Thy  wondrous  works  my  tongue  shall  speak ; 
Men  shall  recount  Thy  deeds  for  Israel, 

And  Thy  great  acts  shall  tell  unto  the  weak. 


The  mem’ry  of  Thy  goodness  they’ll  recall, 

And  their  rich  gifts  of  homage  to  Thee  bring ; 
In  reverence  they  will  before  Thee  fall, 

And  songs  of  praise  in  adoration  sing. 


The  Lord  is  good,  compassionate  and  kind; 

He  slow  to  anger  is,  and  has  a  pity  great; 
The  Lord  is  good  to  all;  in  Him  we  find 
His  tender  mercies  will  upon  us  wait. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


269 


All,  all  Thy  works  shall  praise  Thee,  mighty  God; 

Thy  saints  shall  praise,  and  of  Thy  glory  speak; 
They’ll  talk  of  Thy  correcting,  guiding  rod ; 

The  glory  of  Thy  kingdom  they  will  seek. 

Thy  mighty  acts  they  would  to  all  make  known, 
The  glory  of  Thy  kingdom  they  would  tell ; 

Thy  kingdom  everlasting  is,  Thy  throne 

Shall  stand  secure  wherever  Thou  dost  dwell. 

The  Lord  upholdeth  His  when  they  would  fall; 

He  raiseth  up  all  those  that  are  cast  down ; 

The  eyes  of  all  look  unto  Thee;  their  call 

Thou  wilt  attend,  and  their  petitions  crown. 

Thou  openest  Thy  hand,  and  ev’ry  need 
Of  creatures  here  below  is  satisfied; 

The  Lord  is  righteous,  He  His  own  will  feed; 

He  faithful  is,  no  good  will  be  denied. 

To  all  that  call  upon  Him  he  is  nigh; 

The  Lord  is  near  to  all  that  in  Him  trust; 

When  they  are  troubled  He  will  hear  their  cry, 
And  He  will  save  them,  for  the  Lord  is  just. 

The  Lord  preserveth  them  that  do  him  love ; 

The  angels  in  their  welfare  He’ll  employ, 

And  send  as  messengers  from  courts  above — 

But  all  the  wicked  He  will  soon  destroy. 

My  mouth  shall  speak  the  praises  of  the  Lord, 
And  tell  of  all  His  glory  o’er  and  o’er; 

Let  the  whole  earth  arise  with  one  accord, 

And  praise  His  holy  name  for  evermore. 


270 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


PSALM  146 

Praise  ye  the  Lord  our  God! 

My  soul  with  rapture  praise! 

Long  as  1  live  I’ll  praise  the  Lord, 

And  sacred  anthems  raise. 

Put  not  your  trust  in  men, 

Nor  e’en  in  princes  trust; 

They  helpless  are  when  trials  come, 
Though  with  intentions  just. 

His  breath  departs,  and  he 
Lies  down  inanimate; 

His  thoughts,  they  perish  with  him,  and 
No  more  upon  him  wait. 

Happy  is  he  that  hath 
The  God  of  Jacob  near, 

To  give  him  help  in  times  of  stress, 

And  his  petitions  hear. 

He  who  the  heavens  made, 

The  earth,  and  all  therein; 

The  God  who  righteous  is  and  true, 

And  conquereth  all  sin. 

Who  judgment  doth  mete  out, 

When  He  injustice  sees; 

Who  giveth  to  the  hungry  food, 

And  the  imprisoned  frees. 

Who  openeth  the  eyes 
Of  the  bewildered  blind; 

Who  raiseth  them  that  are  cast  down; 
Who  to  the  good  is  kind. 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


271 


The  Lord  preserveth  e’en 
The  strangers  that  are  His; 

He  to  the  fatherless  and  lone 
A  true  protector  is. 

But  wickedness  He  hates; 

On  evil  He  doth  frown; 

The  plans  of  wicked  men  He  sees, 

And  turns  their  projects  down. 

The  Lord,  our  God,  shall  reign, 

O  Zion!  evermore; 

Praise  ye  the  Lord!  exalt  His  name! 

Praise  Him,  and  Him  adore. 

PSALM  147 

O  praise  ye  Jehovah!  ’tis  seemly  to  praise; 

In  songs  of  devotion  our  thoughts  to  Him  raise; 

It  surely  is  pleasant  and  comely  for  all 
In  sweet  adoration  before  Him  to  fall. 

Our  Zion  doth  God  in  His  wisdom  build  up ; 

The  outcasts  of  Jacob  shall  there  with  Him  sup; 

In  pity  He  healeth  the  broken  in  heart, 

He  bindeth  their  wounds  and  a  balm  doth  impart. 

He  telleth  the  number  of  stars,  and  by  Him 
They  are  called,  and  are  led  through  passages  dim; 

O  great  is  the  Lord!  and  of  infinite  power; 

His  knowledge  is  wonderful !  high  it  doth  tower. 

The  meek,  with  God’s  help,  in  high  places  are  found, 
The  wicked  He  casteth  in  scorn  to  the  ground ; 

O  praise  ye  the  Lord  with  thanksgiving,  and  sing, 
Sing  praise  on  the  harp;  to  our  God  music  bring. 


272 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


He  formeth  the  clouds  in  the  heavens  for  rain ; 

He  starteth  the  grass  on  mountain  and  plain ; 

His  hand  doth  bestow  on  the  beast  needed  food ; 

The  cry  of  young  birds  is  by  Him  understood. 

The  strength  of  the  horse  is  not  His  delight, 

Nor  taketh  He  pleasure  in  man’s  rapid  flight; 

The  Lord  taketh  pleasure  in  them  that  Him  fear ; 

To  those  that  have  hope  in  His  mercy,  He’s  near. 

Jerusalem!  praise  ye  the  Lord;  Him  proclaim; 

O  Zion !  sing  praises  to  God’s  holy  name, 

For  He  hath  well  strengthened  the  bars  of  thy  gates; 
His  children  within  thee  His  blessing  awaits. 

He  maketh  sweet  peace  in  thy  borders  to  dwell ; 

With  finest  of  wheat  He  heapeth  thee  well; 

He  sendeth  His  precepts  abroad  on  the  earth, 

His  word  runneth  swiftly,  the  world  to  engirth. 

Like  wool  is  the  snow  that  He  maketh  to  fall; 

The  hoarfrost,  like  ashes,  He  spreads  over  all ; 

He  casteth  forth  ice,  frozen  hard,  from  the  sky; 

Who,  who  can  endure  the  fierce  cold  and  not  die ! 

He  breathes  on  the  ice,  and  it  melteth  away; 

No  longer  imprisoned  the  waters  will  stay. 

To  Jacob,  His  servant,  He  showeth  His  word, 

His  statutes  and  judgments  His  chosen  have  heard. 

He  hath  not  to  others  such  mercy  e’er  shown ; 

And  as  for  His  judgments,  they  have  not  them  known. 
O  praise  ye  Jehovah!  and  worship  accord; 

Ye  saints  of  Jerusalem,  praise  ye  the  Lord! 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


273 


PSALM  148 

Praise  ye  the  Lord  for  His  great  love ; 

Praise  ye  the  Lord,  ye  heavens  above; 

Praise  Him,  all  ye,  His  angels  fair; 

Praise  Him  ye  hosts  that  worship  there. 

Praise  Him,  thou  sun,  with  warmth  and  light; 
Praise  Him,  thou  moon  throughout  the  night; 
Praise  Him,  ye  stars  that  greet  our  eyes; 
Praise  Him,  ye  heavens  above  the  skies. 

Let  them  all  praise  God’s  holy  name: 

He  spake;  they  into  being  came; 

Them  He  established  in  a  class; 

Gave  them  a  law  which  shall  not  pass. 

Praise  ye  the  Lord,  ye  teeming  earth ; 

Ye  deeps,  break  into  holy  mirth; 

Ye  vapors,  fire,  and  hail,  and  snow, 

And  stormy  wind,  His  power  show. 

Mountains  and  hills,  and  fruitful  trees, 

And  cedars,  praise  with  all  of  these; 

All  beasts  and  cattle,  creeping  things, 

And  fowl  that  swiftly  fly  on  wings. 

Kings  of  the  earth  with  lordly  realm, 

And  subjects  that  bow  down  to  them; 

Princes  and  judges,  join  the  throng, 

And  praise  the  Lord  with  endless  song. 

Young  men  and  maidens,  praise  the  Lord; 
Old  men  and  children,  praise  accord; 

Let  them  all  praise  God’s  holy  name, 

Let  them  His  majesty  proclaim. 


274 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


His  name  alone  is  excellent. 

Who  hath  us  ev’ry  blessing  sent; 

His  glory  reaches  far  above 

The  earth  and  heaven  of  His  love. 

He  also  hath  exalted  well 
The  oft  down-trodden  Israel; 
Therefore,  ye  saints  of  His,  rejoice; 
Praise  ye  the  Lord  with  thankful  voice. 


PSALM  149 

Praise  ye  the  Lord  Jehovah! 

To  Him  sing  a  new  song; 

Sing  in  the  congregation, 

Praise  doth  to  Him  belong. 

Let  Israel,  rejoicing 
In  their  Creator,  sing; 

And  let  the  hosts  of  Zion 
Be  joyful  in  their  King. 

Let  them  in  sacred  dances 
Bring  praise  unto  His  name; 

Upon  the  harp  and  timbrel, 

Let  saints  His  praise  proclaim; 

For  God,  the  Lord,  takes  pleasure, 
His  people  thus  to  see; 

With  grace  He  will  adorn  them, 
And  with  salvation  free. 

Let  all  the  saints  be  joyful, 

Let  glory  on  them  shine; 

Let  them  in  the  night  watches 
Sing  songs  of  praise  divine; 


-  - • 


OF  DAVID,  THE  KING 


Yea,  let  glad  songs  of  praises 
Flow  forth  with  ev’ry  word, 
While  their  right  hand  is  holding 
A  sharp  two-edged  sword. 

To  execute  quick  vengeance 
Upon  the  foes  of  God, 

And  punishments  on  people 
Who  will  defy  His  rod; 

To  hold  their  chiefs  in  fetters, 

And  bind  their  kings  with  chains, 
Till  Christ,  with  power  unquestioned, 
O’er  all  His  kingdom  reigns. 

This  honor  and  this  glory 
Has  the  most  humble  saint, 

Who  fights  against  all  evil, 

Nor  lets  his  heart  grow  faint; 
Who,  when  dark  dangers  threaten, 
Grows  most  courageous  then; 

This  honor,  saints,  awaits  you; 

Praise  ye  the  Lord.  Amen. 


PSALM  150 

Praise  ye  the  Lord!  exalt  His  name! 

Within  the  sanctuary  praise; 

Praise  Him  within  the  firmament 
Of  His  unchanging  power  always. 

Praise  Him  for  all  His  mighty  acts; 

For  all  His  greatness,  praise  accord; 
Praise  Him  with  trumpet  and  with  harp; 
With  psaltery,  praise  ye  the  Lord. 


275 


276 


THE  PEERLESS  POEMS 


Praise  Him  with  timbrel  tuned  anew; 

Praise  Him  on  instruments  of  strings; 
Let  organs  sound  aloud  His  praise, 

And  cymbals  lend  to  praise  swift  wings. 

Let  ev’ry  thing  that  breathes  draw  near 
In  joyful  adoration  then, 

And  in  one  mighty  concourse  shout: 
Praise  ye  the  Lord!  Amen,  Amen. 


